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Abstract
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BACKGROUND: Understanding the long-term effects of environment on health behavior is important for the promotion of population-based physical activity.
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between perceived environment and active commuting among Japanese adults.
METHODS: Internet-based cross-sectional survey were conducted to 3,000 Japanese adults aged 30-59 years. Seven sociodemographic attributes (gender, age, marital status, employment status, living status, educational attainment and household income), type of commute and International Physical Activity Questionnaire Environment Module were assessed by self-administered questionnaire.
RESULTS: Of all respondents to the survey, 2,032 (mean age: 43.8 +/- 9.2, male: 62.5%) were employed. Those who use an active commute were 1,401 (68.9%). In both genders, high residential density (male: OR=2.28, female: OR=3.08), good access to shops (OR=2.03, 3.06), public transportation (OR=1.65, 3.78), recreational facilities (OR=1.31, 1.44), presence of sidewalks (OR=1.42, 1.77), crossroads (OR=1.87, 1.76), having a destination (OR=1.84, 2.34), and not having household vehicles (OR=15.13, 41.24) were associated with an active commute. The results indicated some gender differences. Among male, the presence of a bicycle lane and good aesthetics was positively associated with the active commute, while traffic safety was negatively associated. On the-other hand, crime safety was associated with the active commute in female.
CONCLUSION: The results indicate that perceived environment was associated with the active commute among Japanese adults. (Jpn. J. Phys. Fitness Sports Med. 2010, 59: 215 similar to 224)
Language: ja |