Epidemiological study of physical activity in São Paulo State

• Grant number: 09/00760-0
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: July 01, 2009
• End date: June 30, 2011
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Collective Health - Epidemiology
• Principal Investigator: Angelina Zanesco
• Grantee: Angelina Zanesco
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biociências (IB). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Rio Claro. Rio Claro , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Prevalence of physical activity in the Brazilian adult population is still unknown, given the lack of studies involving this issue. This lack of data creates an important barrier in the development of more effective campaigns to promote physical activity practice. Objective: The objective of this study will examine, in adults of both genders from São Paulo State, the prevalence of the practice of regular physical activity and associated factors. Methods: By mean of a random multistage sampling, a total sample of 3.441 adults (age higher than 18 years old) will be selected in eight cities from São Paulo State. The cities were selected based in their size / location (higher population in their regions) and their importance in the state (administrative capital), thus, were selected for the study: Presidente Prudente (West), São Paulo (Capital), Bauru (Center), Registration (South); Guaratingueta (East), Santos (Coast) São José do Rio Preto (North), Rio Claro (University local). The interviews will be made in the homes of respondents and all aged over 18 years will be considered eligible. Questionnaires will be applied: (i) physical activity, (ii) barriers to engagement in physical activities, (iii) economic condition, (iv) presence of parks or recreational places in the region. Statistical analysis will be based on categorical data, therefore, the chi-square will examine associations between categorical data and Poisson regression with robust variance will indicate the magnitude of them. (AU)