Differences in neighborhood social cohesion and aerobic physical activity by Latino subgroup

Abstract

Previous research has examined the role of neighborhood social cohesion in physical activity outcomes; however, less is known about this relationship across Latino subgroups. The purpose of our study was to examine the association between neighborhood social cohesion and aerobic leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) among Latino adults and to determine whether these associations differ by Latino subgroup. We used cross-sectional 2013–2014 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) data on Latinos originating from 5 countries/regions (i.e., Latinos of Puerto Rican, Mexican/Mexican-American, Cuban/Cuban-American, Dominican and Central or South American origin) aged ≥18 years (n=11,126). Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate associations between self-reported neighborhood social cohesion and meeting aerobic LTPA guidelines. Models were adjusted for age, sex, education, and acculturation. We also investigated whether associations varied by Latino subgroup. In adjusted models for all Latino adults, compared with those reporting low social cohesion, individuals who reported high social cohesion (Odds Ratio [OR]: 1.33; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.17–1.52) were significantly more likely to meet the aerobic physical activity guideline. When stratified by Latino subgroups, among Mexican/Mexicans-Americans (OR: 1.39; 95% CI: 1.16, 1.66) and Cuban/Cuban Americans (OR: 1.73; 95% CI: 1.00, 2.97) high social cohesion was associated with meeting the aerobic activity guideline. Among Dominicans, those who reported medium social cohesion (OR: 0.52, 95% CI: 0.29, 0.93) were less likely to meet the aerobic activity guideline. When examining aerobic physical activity outcomes in the Latino population, the role of neighborhood social cohesion and the variability among Latino subgroups should be considered.

Neighborhood Cohesion, Disorder, and Physical Function in Older Adults: An Examination of Racial/Ethnic Differences

“…There is mixed evidence regarding racial/ethnic differences in the association between neighborhood social cohesion and health (Mulvaney-Day et al, 2007; Murillo et al, 2016; Wong et al, 2018). While some researchers find that the relationship between neighborhood social cohesion and health-related outcomes and behaviors vary by race/ethnicity (Wong et al, 2018; Yi et al, 2016), others find no evidence for racial/ethnic differences in these associations (Echevarria et al, 2008; Olamijuwon et al, 2018).…”

The relationship of education and acculturation with vigorous intensity leisure time physical activity by gender in Latinos

“…Physical activity, education, and acculturation 10 (Murillo, Echeverria, and Vasquez 2016). The IRB has determined that this research does not meet the definition of human subjects research and therefore is excluded from the need for additional review (protocol 998398-1).…”

Neighborhood Walkability and Overweight/Obese Weight Status Among Latino Adults

“…19 However, the 4 items used in our study have been used in previous research to assess neighborhood social cohesion and demonstrated high internal consistency. 22 In our sample, this scale demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach a ¼ .90). A total neighborhood social cohesion score was created by reverse coding and summing the 4 items.…”

“…It has also been suggested that social environmental attributes, including social cohesion (ie, solidarity and connectedness within a group), 19 should be investigated as potential moderators of the built environment 20 and critical for obesity prevention. 21 Social cohesion, a measure of neighborhood environment, has also been shown to be related to physical activity in Latinos 22 and may moderate the relationship between neighborhood walkability and physical activity. Further, physical activity may vary by level of social cohesion in the neighborhood walkability-weight status association.…”