Perceived Neighborhood Environment and Physical Activity: The International Physical Activity and Environment Network Adult Study in Mexico

Abstract

Introduction: There is compelling evidence linking physical activity with environmental characteristics in high-income countries, but evidence among low- and middle-income countries is scarce and results are inconsistent. This study assessed associations between perceived measures of the built environment and objectively measured physical activity among Mexican adults.

Methods: A population-based study of adults aged 20-65 years was conducted in Cuernavaca, Mexico, in 2011 (N=629). Participants wore an accelerometer for 7 days. Perceived environment data were obtained by questionnaire. In 2014, multiple regression models estimated the association between perceived environmental variables and total moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA); MVPA within 10-minute bouts was analyzed using a two-part model.

Results: Easy access to neighborhood parks and close proximity to metropolitan parks were positively associated with total MVPA. Proximity to metropolitan parks was also positively related to any MVPA within bouts among women. High perceived aesthetics among those of low SES and high perceived safety from crime among men were positively associated with total MVPA and MVPA within bouts. Having few cul-de-sacs within the neighborhood and proximity to transit stops were inversely related to total MVPA.

Conclusions: Access to parks, aesthetics, and safety from crime are important correlates of physical activity among Mexican adults. Yet, this study finds no association for other environmental features usually thought to be important for increasing activity levels. These findings highlight the importance of conducting more studies in low- and middle-income countries that examine the relationship between physical activity and the built environment.