Physical Activity and the Built Environment Among Adults on O‘ahu

Abstract

The benefits of physical activity have been well documented. It has shown to decrease risks of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) including diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders (NHPI) are among the populations most affected by non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Population studies have also reported that very few NHPIs meet physical activity recommendations of at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week. This dissertation explored the physical activity status of NHPI in a rural community. By using a social ecological approach, this dissertation aimed to: 1) identify the physical activity status of NHPI and their perceptions of the active living environment, 2) assess physical features and amenities, community programs, and policies that promote physical activity, and 3) have community members identify perceptions of the built environment that influence physical activity behaviors. The study in Chapter Two used the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and the Rural Active Living Perceived Environment Support Scale (RALPESS) to capture physical activity and community perceptions. Chapter Three objectively assessed the environment and examined amenities and facilities by performing an audit on 60 street segments. This study showed that Laʻie had the most sidewalks, crosswalks and bike lanes/path segments. The qualitative study in Chapter Four revealed community-specific barriers and facilitators to being physically active. The data from this dissertation reported that a high proportion of NHPI meet physical activity recommendations and that future research should more closely examine the social environment of NHPI communities.