Assesment of barriers to physical activity among Chinese American youth in NYC

Background: The lack of physical activity among Chinese American youth in New York City (NYC) Chinatown has become a growing concern for the community, as it is associated with childhood obesity, and early onset cardiovascular disease and diabetes. However, limited information exists on the barriers to physical activity among Chinese American youth in NYC. The objective of the study is to identify the barriers to physical activity specific to this community.

Methods: Surveys were administered to 100 parents/primary caretakers of children aged 3-11 and 100 youth aged 12-18 at Charles B. Wang Community Health Center. In addition, one focus group with mothers of children aged 6-11 in Chinese and two focus groups with youth aged 12-18 were conducted in English.

Results: Survey and focus group findings indicate that time spent on competing activities, physical environment, cost and lack of knowledge about available resources were key barriers to physical activity. Youth showed more interest in spending their free time on the computer. Parents/primary caregivers put significant pressure on youth to spend time on schoolwork rather than physical activity. Chinatown lacks accessible public space and facilities for physical activity, and parent/caregivers were concerned about safety and supervision in existing areas. Parents had limited knowledge of existing resources, and cost was a contributing obstacle, especially for activities requiring special equipment and facilities.

Discussion: The findings will inform the development of initiatives and activities that will improve access, affordability and use of physical activity resources in the NYC Chinatown community.