The associations between neighborhood constructs, physical activity, and childhood obesity: Understanding race and income disparities

《The associations between neighborhood constructs, physical activity, and childhood obesity: Understanding race and income disparities》

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关键字: BUILT ENVIRONMENT; UNITED-STATES; URBAN FORM; SCHOOL; PREVALENCE; CHILDREN; HEALTH; COPRODUCTION; BEHAVIORS; WALKING

作者单位: [Uzochukwu, Kelechi] Univ Baltimore, Sch Publ & Int Affairs, Coll Publ Affairs, 10 West Preston St, Baltimore, MD 21201 USA. Uzochukwu, K (reprint author), Univ Baltimore, Sch Publ & Int Affairs, Coll Publ Affairs, 10 West Preston St, Baltimore, MD 21201 USA. E-Mail: kuzochukwu@ubalt.edu

摘要: Scholars suggest that children's built and social environments play key roles in their physical activity (PA) levels and subsequent propensity toward obesity. This study examines the associations between neighborhood constructs and the race and income disparities in PA and health among children ages 10-17 years in the United States. Using the 2011-2012 National Survey of Children's Health and a series of logistic and ordinary least squares regressions, this study compares obesity and PA levels of Black, Hispanic, and low-income children with their White and more affluent counterparts, interacting demographic and neighborhood characteristics with one another. Findings reveal that non-White respondents report having more amenities and more detractions; low-income respondents report having fewer amenities and more detractions; and non-White and low-income respondents report having less social cohesion. Additionally, though amenities and cohesion improve PA and health and detractions have the reverse effect, these effects are opposite for Black, Hispanic, and low-income children. Black children with more cohesion and Hispanic children with more amenities and fewer detractions have greater odds of being obese. Findings underscore the need for improved physical and social environments in non-White and low-income communities, as well as targeted initiatives to educate parents and children on obesity and healthful activities.