Patterns and correlates of physical activity among US women 40 years and older

Objectives. This study describes the patterns of physical activity among mi nority women by using a variety of definitions and determines sociodemograp hic and behavioral correlates of physical activity in this population. Methods. a cross-sectional study was conducted in 1996 and 1997 among US wo men 40 year; and older (n = 2912) of the following racial/ethnic groups: Af rican American, American Indian/ Alaskan Native, Hispanic, and White. Results. Physical activity was lowest among African American and American I ndians/Alaskan Natives (adjusted odds ratios [ORs] for no leisure-time acti vity were 1.35 [95% confidence interval (CT)= 1.08, 1.68] and 1.65 [95% CI = 1.33, 2.06], respectively). A much higher proportion of women were classi fied as Deme physically active when occupational activity rather than more traditional assessments of leisure activity were used to determine level of physical. activity. Bn the basis of a composite definition of physical act ivity 72% of respondents reported being physically active. Women living in rural regions (OR = 1.33, 95% CI = 1.12, 1.58) were more likely than urban inhabitants to be completely inactive during leisure time. Conclusions. Minority women are among the least active subgroups in America n society, although not all groups are less active than White women when al l domains of physical activity are taken into account.