Research Library

Socioeconomic determinants of physical activity among adult Arab immigrants in Edmonton, Alberta

Abstract
Little is known about leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) habits of Arab immigrants in Canada. LTPA has been linked to decreased risks for various disease, as well as increased life expectancy. Socioeconomic status has also been recognized as a significant factor affecting health and wellbeing. The socioeconomic determinants of LTPA, and which individual, social, and environmental factors contribute to LTPA participation for adult Arab immigrants in Edmonton, AB were examined. Around 40% of participants were physically active. Factors that were associated with increased LTPA included: higher educational degrees, higher income, occupations with less physical effort, and familiarity with the health benefits of LTPA. Findings from this research have the potential to design and implement targeted LTPA recommendations and interventions for Arab immigrants.
Notes

Community organizations: n/a

Future research / gaps identified:

Expand research to include Arab immigrants in different locations and of different age groups

Integration timeline: newcomers not defined

Open access: No

Key findings:

  • 1) Increased leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) was associated with i) higher education, ii) higher income, iii) less physically draining occupations, iv) more familiarity of LTPA benefits, and v) social supports for LTPA
  • Higher self-efficacy and increased environmental support for physical activity were associated with decreased LTPA levels

Key populations: adult Arab immigrants in Edmonton, AB

Key recommendations:

Design, implement and evaluate new LTPA interventions targeted towards adult Arab immigrants and other marginalized groups

Location: Edmonton, AB


Collections physical-and-mental-health

Related Tags: