Self-Report versus Objective Measures of Physical Activity in Overweight/Obese Latina Immigrants in Alabama

Background: A higher percentage of Latinas are overweight or obese compared to non-Hispanic white women. Little is known about how actual measures of physical activity correlate to selfreport in Latina Immigrants. Objective: To explore 1) physical activity patterns and 2) the association between self-report and objective measures of physical activity among Latinas in a culturally relevant, theory-based weight loss program for Latina immigrants delivered in a community setting. Methods: Latina immigrants with a BMI >25 were recruited to participate in a community-based weight loss study. Baseline physical activity was measured with the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire and uniaxial accelerometers worn at least 3 weekdays and 1 weekend day. Results were analyzed as minutes per day spent in sedentary time and light, moderate, and vigorous physical activity. Results: Data were from 37 mostly Mexican women, in the U.S. 13 years on average, with mean age of 36 and BMI of 33.3. Based on accelerometry, 22% of participants met physical activity recommendations (150 min/week moderate activity or 75 min/week vigorous activity). Comparison of accelerometer results to self-reported activity revealed no significant correlation for sedentary time (r = 0.09; P = 0.60), moderate (r = 0.28; P = 0.08) or vigorous activity (r = -0.08; P = 0.59). Conclusion: In this study, overweight/obese Latina immigrants overestimated their physical activity level compared to objective measures. Studies to test whether incorporating feedback on actual activity levels could lead to increased activity are warranted. *Student is graduate research assistant and involved in numerous aspects of project.