Abstract
Objectives: We examined whether Mexican American adults report occupations that involve higher levels of objectively assessed physical activity compared with Non-Hispanic White and Black adults, and if the differences were independent of income. Methods: Data from the 2003-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES; N. = 2707) were analyzed in 2012-2013. An existing classification scheme was used to classify self-reported occupation as sedentary, low-active, or moderately active. From NHANES accelerometer data, proportion of wear time was stratified by intensity. Results: A dose-response relationship was found such that workers in more active occupations spent more time in light-intensity activity and less time engaged in sedentary activities. The findings did not suggest a compensation effect for moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity. Mexican American adults engaged in more activity than Non-Hispanic Black or White adults for incomes between $10,000 and $64,999. Conclusions: Mexican American adults may have higher total physical activity levels in NHANES because of occupational activity, particularly among lower income households. To the extent that light-intensity activity may provide health benefits, occupational activity may partly explain the Hispanic paradox.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 58-62 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Preventive Medicine |
Volume | 63 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2014 |
Keywords
- Accelerometer
- Exercise
- Health disparities
- Mexican-American
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Epidemiology
- Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health