Disparities in Built and Natural Features of Urban Parks: Comparisons by Neighborhood Level Race/Ethnicity and Income

Known associations between the built environment and health outcomes have accelerated research examining racial/ethnic and income disparities in access to parks and other community features that support physical activity. Currently, it cannot be concluded that park characteristics are equal in quantity or condition across areas of disparate race/ethnicity and income composition. This study examined natural and built park characteristics across areas of different race/ethnicity and income composition to identify potential disparities. Twenty-one parks in Greensboro, NC (USA), located in minority or non-minority areas and in low or medium-high income areas were inventoried using a park audit tool and GIS. Parks were compared on number of activity areas, features, amenities, size, percent tree canopy, cleanliness, and condition. Independent sample t tests and Mann–Whitney tests were used to compare means of outcome variables. Fisher’s exact tests were applied for categorical variables. Fewer wooded areas and more trash cans were found in low-income and minority areas as compared to medium-high income and non-minority areas. Low-income areas were found to have more picnic areas than their counterparts. Sitting and resting features in non-minority areas were found to be cleaner than those in minority areas. Results showed some evidence of disparities in park characteristics. Findings can inform park policy and design as well as renovations and maintenance procedures, particularly in specific areas where existing disparities were identified

Physical Activity Constraints among Latinos: Identifying Clusters and Acculturation Differences

Understanding leisure-time physical activity among Latinos is a national public health concern. This study examined constraints to leisure-time physical activity among Latinos in North Carolina in relation to their level of acculturation. Data (N = 457) were obtained through a community survey. Four subgroups with similar constraints were identified using cluster analysis: Access and Partner Constrained, Safety and Access Constrained, Least Constrained, and Highly Constrained. Results showed that low acculturation was significantly associated with being highly constrained. Latinos born outside the U.S. were more likely to be classified as Access and Partner Constrained and Safety and Access Constrained. The findings contribute to understanding constraints in the context of acculturation and offer practitioners perspective on creating physical activity programs for Latinos

Physical activity constraints among latinos identifying clusters and acculturation differences

Abstract: Understanding leisure-time physical activity among Latinos is a national public health concern. This study examined constraints to leisure-time physical activity among Latinos in North Carolina in relation to their level of acculturation. Data (N = 457) were obtained through a community survey. Four subgroups with similar constraints were identified using cluster analysis