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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Amanda M. Lemes, BA¹, Elizabeth A. Baker, PhD¹, Mario Schootman, PhD², Cheryl Kelly, MPH¹, and Kylie Harrold¹. (1) School of Public Health, Saint Louis University, Salus Center, 3545 Lafayette Ave, Saint Louis, MO 63104, 314-977-8138, mandylemes@yahoo.com, (2) Health Behavior Research, Washington University of St. Louis-School of Medicine, 4444 Forest Park Ave, Saint Louis, MO 63108

Introduction: There are significant differences in rates of physical activity in various geographic areas and among demographic groups. Previous research suggests that access to parks helps increase the likelihood of engaging in physical activity; however, not all parks are created equal. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the extent to which geographic area (city and county) as well as area-level racial composition and poverty are associated with park conditions, an environmental indicator for physical activity. Methods: Community parks were identified and mapped using a geographic information system. Each park was assessed for access to equipment, physical disorder and safety in parks. 2000 US Census data were used to assess area-level racial composition and poverty. Behavioral risk factor surveillance survey (BRFSS) data were reviewed to determine activity levels. Results: The BRFSS data indicated that physical inactivity was significantly higher in the city (30.7%) than the county (11.7%). A total of 205 community parks were audited. City parks were less likely to have access to equipment and more likely to have physical disorder than county parks. Parks within predominantly African American and/or low income areas were less likely to provide opportunities to be physically active. Conclusion: Aspects of the park environment vary in the city and county and by area-level characteristics. This suggests that there is a differential investment in community infrastructures and resources, with the least investment in areas that are majority African American and/or low income. This differential investment is likely to influence rates of physical activity.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

• Define indicators in the park environment that influence physical activity
• Articulate the process used to assess community parks
• Discuss area-level factors influencing physical activity and their relative importance

Keywords: Physical Activity, Indicators

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered