scholarly journals Quantifying the Food and Physical Activity Environments in Rural, High Obesity Communities

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (24) ◽  
pp. 13344
Author(s):  
Lacey A. McCormack ◽  
Jessica R. Meendering ◽  
Linda Burdette ◽  
Nikki Prosch ◽  
Lindsay Moore ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Rural Communities ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Grocery Store ◽  
Grocery Stores ◽  
Active Living ◽  
Obesity Prevalence ◽  
Assessment Score ◽  
The Mean ◽  
Physical Activity Environments

The built environment contributes to an individual’s health, and rural geographies face unique challenges for healthy eating and active living. The purpose of this descriptive study was to assess the nutrition and physical activity environments in rural communities with high obesity prevalence. One community within each of six high obesity prevalence counties in a rural Midwest state completed the Nutrition Environment Measures Survey for Stores (NEMS-S) and the Rural Active Living Assessment (RALA). Data were collected by trained community members and study staff. All communities had at least one grocery store and five had at least one convenience store. Grocery stores had higher mean total NEMS-S scores than convenience stores (26.6 vs. 6.0, p < 0.001), and higher scores for availability (18.7 vs. 5.3, p < 0.001) and quality (5.4 vs. 0, p < 0.001) of healthful foods (higher scores are preferable). The mean RALA town-wide assessment score across communities was 56.5 + 15.6 out of a possible 100 points. The mean RALA program and policy assessment score was 40.8 + 20.4 out of a possible 100 points. While grocery stores and schools are important for enhancing food and physical environments in rural areas, many opportunities exist for improvements to impact behaviors and address obesity.

Rural Neighborhood Walkability: Implications for Assessment

2015 ◽  
Vol 12 (s1) ◽  
pp. S40-S45 ◽  
Author(s):  
Michelle C. Kegler ◽  
Iris Alcantara ◽  
Regine Haardörfer ◽  
Alexandra Gemma ◽  
Denise Ballard ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Rural Communities ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Walking Distance ◽  
Activity Levels ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Physically Active ◽  
Neighborhood Walkability ◽  
Bodies Of Water ◽  
Active Adults

Background:Physical activity levels, including walking, are lower in the southern U.S., particularly in rural areas. This study investigated the concept of rural neighborhood walkability to aid in developing tools for assessing walkability and to identify intervention targets in rural communities.Methods:Semi-structured interviews were conducted with physically active adults (n = 29) in rural Georgia. Mean age of participants was 55.9 years; 66% were male, 76% were white, and 24% were African American. Participants drew maps of their neighborhoods and discussed the relevance of typical domains of walkability to their decisions to exercise. Comparative analyses were conducted to identify major themes.Results:The majority felt the concept of neighborhood was applicable and viewed their neighborhood as small geographically (less than 0.5 square miles). Sidewalks were not viewed as essential for neighborhood-based physical activity and typical destinations for walking were largely absent. Destinations within walking distance included neighbors’ homes and bodies of water. Views were mixed on whether shade, safety, dogs, and aesthetics affected decisions to exercise in their neighborhoods.Conclusions:Measures of neighborhood walkability in rural areas should acknowledge the small size of self-defined neighborhoods, that walking in rural areas is likely for leisure time exercise, and that some domains may not be relevant.

scholarly journals Web-Based Dissemination of a Civic Engagement Curriculum to Promote Healthy Eating and Active Living in Rural Towns: The eHEART Study

2020 ◽  
Vol 17 (7) ◽  
pp. 2571
Author(s):  
Rebecca Seguin-Fowler ◽  
Meredith Graham ◽  
Urshila Sriram ◽  
Galen Eldridge ◽  
Jimin Kim ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Civic Engagement ◽  
Healthy Eating ◽  
Environmental Changes ◽  
Local Health ◽  
Active Living ◽  
Health Educators ◽  
Rural Environments ◽  
Engagement Interventions ◽  
Physical Activity Environments

Civic engagement interventions aimed at improving food and physical activity environments hold promise in addressing rural health disparities, but ensuring feasible and sustained dissemination remains a challenge. The present study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a civic engagement curriculum adapted for online dissemination (Healthy Eating and Activity in Rural Towns (eHEART)). The eHEART curriculum and website were developed based on feedback from local health educators and community members. eHEART groups were facilitated by local Extension educators across three rural towns in three U.S. states (Montana, Wisconsin, and Alaska). Implementation feasibility was assessed through monthly project reports and interviews with educators. All eHEART groups successfully completed curriculum activities and met their project goals after nine months (November 2018 to July 2019). Groups ranged in size from 4 to 8 community residents and implemented varied strategies to improve aspects of their local food and/or physical activity environments. Facilitators of implementation included clear guidance on facilitating curriculum activities and the flexible and community-driven nature of eHEART projects. Recommended changes included more guidance on evaluating projects and contacting stakeholders as well as providing online tools and support for project management. Findings from this work have important implications for creating healthier rural environments. Local health educators and other community groups can feasibly use the eHEART curriculum to foster environmental changes that support healthy eating and active living.

scholarly journals Barriers to Recruiting Men Into Chronic Disease Prevention and Management Programs in Rural Areas

2016 ◽  
Vol 10 (6) ◽  
pp. NP155-NP157 ◽  
Author(s):  
Adam G. Gavarkovs ◽  
Shauna M. Burke ◽  
Kristen C. Reilly ◽  
Robert J. Petrella
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Chronic Disease ◽  
Rural Communities ◽  
Disease Prevention ◽  
Healthy Eating ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Healthy Lifestyle ◽  
Chronic Disease Prevention ◽  
Program Delivery ◽  
Men Health

Chronic disease is becoming increasingly prevalent in Canada. Many of these diseases could be prevented by adoption of healthy lifestyle habits including physical activity and healthy eating. Men, especially those in rural areas, are disproportionately affected by chronic disease. However, men are often underrepresented in community-based chronic disease prevention and management (CDPM) programs, including those that focus on physical activity and/or healthy eating. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences and perceptions of program delivery staff regarding the challenges in recruitment and participation of men in physical activity and healthy eating programs in rural communities, and suggestions for improvement. Semistructured interviews were conducted by telephone with 10 CDPM program delivery staff from rural communities in Southwest Ontario, Canada. Time and travel constraints, relying on spouses, and lack of male program leaders were cited as barriers that contributed to low participation levels by men in CDPM programs. Hiring qualified male instructors and engaging spouses were offered as strategies to increase men’s participation. The results of this study highlight many of the current issues faced by rural health organizations when offering CDPM programming to men. Health care organizations and program delivery staff can use the recommendations in this report to improve male participation levels.

scholarly journals Fitness and the Crisis: Impacts of COVID-19 on Active Living and Life Satisfaction in Austria

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (24) ◽  
pp. 13073
Author(s):  
David Jungwirth ◽  
Chiara Amelie Weninger ◽  
Daniela Haluza
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Life Satisfaction ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Natural Environments ◽  
Active Living ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Before And After ◽  
Austrian Population

The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically impacted human lifestyles across the world. Lockdowns and home confinement decreased prior opportunities for everyday physical activity. To retrospectively assess how the Austrian population coped with these aspects of the crisis, we conducted a cross-sectional online survey from March to September 2021 using a structured questionnaire in German. In total, 1214 participants (56.9% females, mean age 37.0 years) living across Austria shared self-reported information on sociodemographic characteristics, indoor and outdoor physical activity, reasons for being outdoors, and life satisfaction before and after the emergence of the virus. As a result, overall indoor physical activity significantly decreased in a before–during COVID-19 crisis comparison, although exercising at home with online instructions increased by about 63%. Exercising outdoors increased overall, specifically in periurban forests and rural areas, both by about 9%. Life satisfaction decreased significantly by 19.7% (p < 0.001). Outdoor public places and natural environments gained importance due to restrictions affecting access to sport facilities. Further research is needed to evaluate benefits and therapeutic values of outdoor nature for physical and mental health in times of a global pandemic to maintain resilient societies, as it might impact future active living and life satisfaction.

Prevalence of Dyslipidemia in Urban and Rural Areas of the Northwest of Iran: The Sociodemographic, Dietary and Psychological Determi-nants

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jafar Sadegh TABRIZI ◽  
Leila NIKNIAZ ◽  
Homayoun SADEGHI-BAZARGANI ◽  
Mostafa FARAHBAKHSH ◽  
Zeinab NIKNIAZ ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Salt Intake ◽  
Population Based ◽  
Major Health Problem ◽  
Psychological Determinants ◽  
Preventable Risk Factor ◽  
Low Hdl ◽  
Northwest Of Iran ◽  
The Mean

Background: As dyslipidemia is a preventable risk factor for Coronary heart disease (CHD), precise estimation of its prevalence and determinants is crucial for proper development of health actions. This population-based study aimed at investigating the socioeconomic, dietary and psychological determinants of dyslipidemia in Iran. Methods: The data (n=700) for this study were collected in 2015 as a part of the major Lifestyle Promotion Project (LPP) conducted in East Azerbaijan (urban and regional parts). The data for socio-demographic status, dietary information, and physical activity and anxiety levels were collected through validated questionnaires. Then, physical examinations including blood pressure, body mass index (BMI) and conicity index were performed. The levels of serum lipids were measured by enzymatic colorimetric methods. Results: The prevalence of hypercholesterolemia, high LDL-C, hypertriglyceridemia, low HDL-C and dyslipidemia was 29.4%, 10.3%, 62.3%, 41.4%, 83.3% respectively. The mean TC (184.3±41.2 vs. 174.5±38.1 mg/dl), LDL-C (94.6±30.3 vs. 88.1±28.7 mg/dl) and HDL-C (46.7±10.4 vs. 39.5±8.0 mg/dl) in women were significantly higher than men (P<0.05). However, the mean of TG (182.3±119.3 vs. 145.1±87.8 mg/dl) was significantly higher in men compared to women (P<0.05). Obesity, family history of dyslipidemia, sedentary lifestyle, smoking habits, salt intake, and anxiety were risk factors for different components of dyslipidemia in men and women. Conclusion: Dyslipidemia is a major health problem in northwest of Iran. Focusing on screening, regular drug intake, proper nutrition, physical activity, and changing lifestyles of patients with dyslipidemia are essential.  

scholarly journals Do food and physical activity environments vary between disadvantaged urban and rural areas? Findings from the READI Study

2012 ◽  
Vol 23 (2) ◽  
pp. 153-156 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lukar E. Thornton ◽  
David A. Crawford ◽  
Verity J. Cleland ◽  
Anna F. Timperio ◽  
Gavin Abbott ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Urban And Rural Areas ◽  
Physical Activity Environments

scholarly journals Where does the black population of South Africa stand on the nutrition transition?

2002 ◽  
Vol 5 (1a) ◽  
pp. 157-162 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lesley T Bourne ◽  
Estelle V Lambert ◽  
Krisela Steyn
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
South Africa ◽  
Total Energy ◽  
South African ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Health Workers ◽  
Black Population ◽  
Obesity Prevalence ◽  
National Prevalence ◽  
Hiv Aids

AbstractObjective:To review data on selected risk factors related to the emergence of non communicable diseases (NCDs) in the black population of South Africa.Methods:Data from existing literature on South African blacks were reviewed with an emphasis placed on changes in diet and the emergence of obesity and related NCDs.Design:Review and analysis of secondary data over time relating to diet, physical activity and obesity and relevant to nutrition-related NCDs.Settings:Urban, peri-urban and rural areas of South Africa. National prevalence data are also included.Subjects:Black adults over the age of 15 years were examined.Results:Shifts in dietary intake, to a less prudent pattern, are occurring with apparent increasing momentum, particularly among blacks, who constitute three-quarters of the population. Data have shown that among urban blacks, fat intakes have increased from 16.4% to 26.2% of total energy (a relative increase of 59.7%), while carbohydrate intakes have decreased from 69.3% to 61.7% of total energy (a relative decrease of 10.9%) in the past 50 years. Shifts towards the Western diet are apparent among rural African dwellers as well. The South African Demographic and Health Survey conducted in 1998 revealed that 31.8% of African women (over the age of 15 years) were obese (body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kgm−2) and that a further 26.7% were overweight (BMI ≥ 25 to <30 kgm−2). The obesity prevalence among men of the same age was 6.0%, with 19.4% being overweight. The national prevalence of hypertension in blacks was 24.4%, using the cut-off point of 140/90 mmHg. There are limited data on the population's physical activity patterns. However, the effects of the HIV/AIDS epidemic will become increasingly important.Conclusions:The increasing emergence of NCDs in black South Africans, compounded by the HIV/AIDS pandemic, presents a complex picture for health workers and policy makers. Increasing emphasis needs to be placed on healthy lifestyles.

scholarly journals The Physical Activity–Related Barriers and Facilitators Perceived by Men Living in Rural Communities

2015 ◽  
Vol 11 (4) ◽  
pp. 1130-1132 ◽  
Author(s):  
Adam G. Gavarkovs ◽  
Shauna M. Burke ◽  
Robert J. Petrella
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Rural Communities ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Protective Factor ◽  
Barriers And Facilitators ◽  
Activity Levels ◽  
National Guidelines ◽  
Small Communities ◽  
Response Options

Men, especially those living in rural areas, experience chronic disease at higher rates than the general population. Physical activity is a well-established protective factor against many chronic diseases; however, only a small fraction of men are meeting national guidelines for physical activity. The purpose of this study was to examine the perceived physical activity–related barriers and facilitators experienced by men living in rural areas in Canada. Participants completed a paper-and-pencil or online survey and asked to select personally relevant physical activity-related barriers and facilitators from a list of 9 and 10 choices, respectively. A total of 149 men completed the survey (50.3% between the ages of 18 and 55 years; 43.0% older than 55 years). Participants were predominantly from rural areas and smaller communities. Overall, the response options “I’m too tired,” “I don’t have enough time,” and “I think I get enough exercise as work” were the three most frequently cited barriers to regular physical activity. The response options “Personal motivation to be healthy,” “I enjoy it,” and “Support from family and/or friends” were the three most often cited facilitators to physical activity. Results are similar to those shown in other populations. Results can be used to inform the development of policies and programs that aim to increase the physical activity levels of men living in rural areas and small communities.

scholarly journals TECHNOLOGY USE IN RURAL DEMENTIA CARE: PERSPECTIVES FROM FAMILY CAREGIVERS, PWD, AND SERVICE PROFESSIONALS

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S860-S860
Author(s):  
Lucas R Prieto ◽  
Fei Sun ◽  
Wenwu Zhang ◽  
Anastasia Kononova
Keyword(s):  
Rural Communities ◽  
Family Caregivers ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Technology Use ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Dementia Care ◽  
Care Recipient ◽  
Technology Literacy ◽  
Grocery Stores ◽  
Use Of Technology

Abstract Purpose: The use of technology in dementia care has shown promising benefits for both people living with dementia and their family caregivers, however, little is known regarding how technology is used among families affected by dementia who reside in rural communities. The purpose of this study was to explore technology use and barriers among people living with dementia, family caregivers, and service professionals who live in rural areas of Michigan. Methods: This study was based upon focus group data from six groups of family caregivers (n=32); one group of people living with early stages of dementia (n=4), and one group of service professionals (n=4) recruited from rural counties in Michigan. Results: Technology use included assisting caregiving tasks (e.g., monitoring a wandering care recipient), facilitating treatment (e.g., access treatment through telemedicine), and providing social connection and support. Themes related to strategies included addressing educational needs of young older and old-older caregivers, providing step-by-step toolkits, and collaborating with multi-sectors (e.g., public libraries, grocery stores, and churches). Discussion: Findings suggest a great need to facilitate technology literacy and competency for rural family caregivers to access caregiving resources. To effectively reach out to this population, technology methods such as local TV news network, radio, and newspaper are still beneficial. Health and social service professionals should consider collaborations with public service institutions (e.g. libraries) and faith-based organizations to include educational workshops about technology in their curriculum and training programs for dementia family caregivers.

Self-perceived Anxiety Symptoms and its Associated Factors among Type 2 Diabetic Patients in Rural Communities of Malaysia

2016 ◽  
Vol 1 (2) ◽  
pp. 11
Author(s):  
Azlina Wati Nikmat ◽  
Mohd Ariff Fadzil ◽  
Sakinah Idris
Keyword(s):  
Diabetes Mellitus ◽  
Rural Communities ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Multiple Logistic Regression Analysis ◽  
Depression Scale ◽  
Anxiety Symptoms ◽  
Diabetic Patients ◽  
Type 2 Diabetic Patients ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
The Mean

Introduction: Little is known about anxiety symptoms among diabetic patients, especially among those who are living in rural areas in Malaysia. Thus, the aim of this paper is to investigate the prevalence of anxiety among diabetic patients and factors associated with anxiety in rural communities in Malaysia. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 464 diabetes mellitus patients in rural health districts and outpatient clinics in Malaysia was conducted. Each participant was interviewed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Results: Respondents consisted of 193 (41.6%) males and 271 (58.4%) females. The mean age of participants was 59.65 ± 10.16 years and the mean duration of diabetes mellitus was 6.9 ± 6.3 years. Results indicate that 15% of the participants have anxiety symptoms. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that patients with history of ischemic heart disease and depression and those who were underweight have higher anxiety scores with adjusted OR 5.06 (95% CI 1.79 to 14.27), 27.71 (95% CI 14.23 to 53.98) and 14.6 (95% CI 2.49 to 84.82), respectively. Conclusions: This study suggests that although the prevalence of anxiety among diabetics is low, primary care physician should be trained to identify high risk patients and to manage their condition in order to improve the clinical outcome.

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