Abstract
IntroductionThe objectives of this study were to examine relationships between neighbourhood-level and individual-level characteristics and physical activity in deprived London neighbourhoods.MethodsIn 40 of the most deprived neighbourhoods in London (ranked in top 11% in London by Index of Multiple Deprivation) a cross-sectional survey (n = 4107 adults aged > = 16 years), neighbourhood audit tool, GIS measures and routine data measured neighbourhood and individual-level characteristics.The binary outcome was meeting the minimum recommended (CMO, UK) 5×30 mins moderate physical activity per week. Multilevel modelling was used to examine associations between physical activity and individual and neighbourhood-level characteristics.ResultsRespondents living more than 300 m away from accessible greenspace had lower odds of achieving recommended physical activity levels than those who lived within 300 m; from 301–600 m (OR = 0.7; 95% CI 0.5–0.9) and from 601–900 m (OR = 0.6; 95% CI 0.4–0.8). There was substantial residual between-neighbourhood variance in physical activity (median odds ratio = 1.7). Other objectively measured neighbourhood-level characteristics were not associated with physical activity levels.ConclusionsDistance to nearest greenspace is associated with meeting recommended physical activity levels in deprived London neighbourhoods. Despite residual variance in physical activity levels between neighbourhoods, we found little evidence for the influence of other measured neighbourhood-level characteristics.
Highlights
The objectives of this study were to examine relationships between neighbourhood-level and individual-level characteristics and physical activity in deprived London neighbourhoods
Several comprehensive reviews of this evidence base have summarised the key relationships between neighbourhood-level variables and physical activity levels [8,9,10,11,12]
The odds of meeting CMO’s minimum recommended physical activity levels were lower for women than for men and were lower with increasing age
Summary
The objectives of this study were to examine relationships between neighbourhood-level and individual-level characteristics and physical activity in deprived London neighbourhoods. Regular physical activity is effective in reducing the risk of premature death and in preventing the development of many chronic diseases [1] It is currently recommended by the Chief Medical Officer for England that adults take some moderate or vigorous physical activity every day and a minimum of 150 minutes per week [2]. There is a growing evidence base to suggest that neighbourhoods may support or constrain opportunities to lead physically active lifestyles through the influence of a range of neighbourhood-level factors. These factors are often referred to in the literature as the ‘physical’ or ‘built’ environment, but may include elements of the social environment. Several comprehensive reviews of this evidence base have summarised the key relationships between neighbourhood-level variables and physical activity levels [8,9,10,11,12]
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