Physical Activity and Acculturation Among U.S. Latinas of Child-bearing Age

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Amber Vermeesch, Associate Professor of Nursing (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/

Abstract: The majority of Latinas of childbearing age is not sufficiently active; a significant health disparity, and is at risk for deleterious health consequences. The study’s objectives were to explore acculturation and associated factors’ effect on engagement in physical activity (PA) among Latinas. Based on data (2008-2011 National Health Interview Survey; N = 7,278), multinomial logistic models predicted odds of adherence to 2008 PA Guidelines for Americans. Among 3,386,680 Latinas, 18 to 47 years, 58.9% (standard error [SE] = 0.0073) met neither aerobic nor muscle-strengthening recommendations, after controlling for poverty, income, marital status, and competing obligations. Less acculturated Latinas (Spanish-preferring) were less likely to engage in PA than English-preferring counterparts (odds ratio [OR] = 0.57, p < .01). Spanish-preferring foreign-born Latinas have substantially smaller odds of meeting PA guidelines than U.S.-born English-preferring Latinas (OR = 0.3, p < .001). Puerto Ricans and Dominican immigrants are least likely to meet guidelines. Latinas are not homogeneous. Country of origin and acculturation should be considered in future PA interventions.

Additional Information

Publication
Western Journal of Nursing Research. 36(4)
Language: English
Date: 2013
Keywords
Latinas, Hispanic women, physical activity, acculturation

Email this document to