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Affiliation
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City of Greater Geelong Council, PO Box 104, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia; WHO Collaborating Centre for Obesity Prevention, Deakin University, Locked Bag 20000, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia. Electronic address: CFoulkes@geelongcity.vic.gov.au. |
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Abstract
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BACKGROUND: Increasing incidental physical activity (IPA) such as active transport has substantial public health potential.
OBJECTIVE: This systematic review describes community-based and community-wide IPA interventions and assesses their effectiveness.
METHOD: Data sources (Medline, Embase, PsycINFO and CINAHL) were searched along with the reference lists of identified systematic reviews and included articles. Eligibility criteria; 4+ weeks in duration; 20+ participants; community-based or community-wide; stated aim to increase IPA.
RESULTS: Forty three studies were identified from 42 original articles; more than half (60%) aimed to increase stair use compared to escalator and/or lift use; a quarter (23%) aimed to increase active transport; and, 16% to increase playground energy expenditure. More than two-thirds of studies reported a significant increase in IPA. Accurate comparisons between studies were not possible due to substantial heterogeneity in study design. Critical appraisal of studies revealed that the level of bias was moderate-high in most of the studies (77%).
CONCLUSION: Due to the heterogeneity and bias of included studies, only limited conclusions can be drawn about the effectiveness of IPA interventions. However, this systematic review provides a timely summary of current evidence that can be used to inform decision-makers in designing IPA interventions in the community.
Language: en |