Physical Activity Surveillance, Policy, And Research: 2020 Report From The Global Observatory For Physical Activity

Abstract

The Global Physical Activity Observatory (GoPA!) is an independent network of contacts in more than 160 countries. Its goal is to translate physical activity (PA) data into significant public health action and help countries meet the World Health Organization’s target of a 15% reduction in physical inactivity by 2030. PURPOSE: To present the changes in PA surveillance, policy, and research indicators from 2015 to 2020. METHODS: GoPA! working groups developed indicators for the 2020 Second Set of Country Cards and 2nd Physical Activity Almanac (https://www.globalphysicalactivityobservatory.com/). Data was collected for 217 countries and in 164, a local contact validated the data. Associations were calculated between surveillance, policy, and research indicators. RESULTS: At least 1 PA article was found in 81.1% of countries worldwide. Of the 164 countries, 151 (92.1%) had at least one national survey assessing PA prevalence, 139 (84.8%) had at least two national surveys, 30 (18.3%) had three national surveys, and 13 (7.9%) had no surveillance. Low-income nations had less frequent monitoring than middle- and high-income countries. 62 (17.1%) countries had a standalone PA policy, 74 (45.1%) had a non-communicable disease prevention policy that included PA, and 28 (37.8%) had no PA policy. Positive and moderate associations (P < .05) were found between surveillance and policy (rho = 0.5410), research and policy (rho = 0.5033), and research and surveillance (rho = 0.4350). CONCLUSIONS: Filling PA surveillance, research, and policy gaps is critical for global PA promotion and improvement in one may benefit the others. GoPA! will continue periodic PA monitoring. Supported by University of California San Diego, USA; Federal University of Pelotas, Brazil; Universidad de los Andes, Colombia.