Associations of Park Visits, Physical Activity and Health Outcomes Among Churchgoing Latino Adults in Low-Income Urban Communities

This study examines factors associated with park visits, physical activity (PA), and chronic health conditions using baseline data from a cluster randomized controlled trial to promote PA and park visits among churchgoing Latino adults in low-income urban communities. Participants (n = 726) were recruited from 12 Catholic churches in predominantly Latino neighborhoods in and near East Los Angeles. Data collection included accelerometer-measured PA, self-reported weekly park visits, socio-demographics, history of hypertension and Type 2 diabetes, family and friend social support for PA, depression (PHQ8), stress, and measured height and weight. Multivariable linear and logistic regression models assessed associations between predictors and health outcomes. The average age was 52.3 years; 76% were women; 71% had completed high school or less; and the average BMI was 31.1 (obese). Age, female gender, and higher depressive symptoms were negatively associated with moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA). Being employed, greater depressive symptoms, and more safety concerns were negatively associated with park visits, while higher family support for PA was positively associated. Both accelerometer-based MVPA and self-reported park visits were associated with lower depressive symptoms. Park visits were also associated with lower odds of Type 2 diabetes, and higher family support for PA was linked with reduced odds of hypertension. These results address gaps in understanding the relationships between PA and park visits and physical and mental health among churchgoing Latino adults. Churches may serve as important venues to support family-oriented park events and promote greater use of parks for health promotion in Latino communities. Association of park visits, physical activity and health outcomes among Latino church members in low-income urban communities.