Geocoding processes in cohort studies: methods applied in the EpiFloripa Aging.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the process and epidemiological implications of georeferencing in EpiFloripa Aging samples (2009-2019). METHOD: The EpiFloripa Aging Cohort Study sought to investigate and monitor the living and health conditions of the older adult population (≥ 60) of Florianópolis in three study waves (2009/2010, 2013/2014, 2017/2019). With an automatic geocoding tool, the residential addresses were spatialized, allowing to investigate the effect of the georeferencing sample losses regarding 19 variables, evaluated in the three waves. The influence of different neighborhood definitions (census tracts, Euclidean buffers, and buffers across the street network) was examined in the results of seven variables: area, income, residential density, mixed land use, connectivity, health unit count, and public open space count. Pearson's correlation coefficients were calculated to evaluate the differences between neighborhood definitions according to three variables: contextual income, residential density, and land use diversity. RESULT: The losses imposed by geocoding (6%, n = 240) caused no statistically significant difference between the total sample and the geocoded sample. The analysis of the study variables suggests that the geocoding process may have included a higher proportion of participants with better income, education, and living conditions. The correlation coefficients showed little correspondence between measures calculated by the three neighborhood definitions (r = 0.37-0.54). The statistical difference between the variables calculated by buffers and census tracts highlights limitations in their use in the description of geospatial attributes. CONCLUSION: Despite the challenges related to geocoding, such as inconsistencies in addresses, adequate correction and verification mechanisms provided a high rate of assignment of geographic coordinates, the findings suggest that adopting buffers, favored by geocoding, represents a potential for spatial epidemiological analyses by improving the representation of environmental attributes and the understanding of health outcomes.

How do the year's seasons and specific weather indices affect physical activity and the patterns of use of public open spaces in the Brazilian context?

BACKGROUND: Public open spaces (POS) can offer various resources to promote visitation and engagement in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). However, the influence of seasonal variations and specific meteorological conditions on this relationship remains unclear. Thus, this study aims to investigate the effect of seasonal variations and specific meteorological elements on different days of the week and times of day on POS use and POS-based MVPA in the Brazilian context. METHODS: In 2018, repeated measurements carried out in Southern Brazil used a systematic observation to identify the presence of users in the POS and their engagement in MVPA. The meteorological elements (temperature, thermal sensation, and relative humidity), as well as seasonality (summer, autumn, winter, and spring), were aggregated into the observations. RESULTS: A total of 19,712 systematic observations were conducted across nine POS. During these observations, a total of 59,354 users were identified. Out of theses, 39,153 (66.0%) were engaged in POS-based MVPA. The presence of users was found to be more frequent during the spring season (38.7%) and on weekends (ranging from 37.6 to 50.1% across seasons). Additionally, user presence was higher in the late afternoon (ranging from 36.4 to 58.2% across seasons) and at higher temperatures with lower relative humidity (p-value < 0.001). Regarding POS-based MVPA, it was more frequent during the winter season (36.4%) and on weekdays (ranging from 73.2 to 79.9% across seasons). Similarly, MVPA was higher in the late afternoon (ranging from 58.3 to 67.5% across seasons) and at lower temperatures and thermal sensations (p-value < 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Higher presence of users in POS, as well as their visiting, to practice POS-based MVPA, depending on the seasons and specific meteorological elements. By creating infrastructure and conducive conditions, cities can encourage individuals to adopt more active and healthy behaviors. These findings emphasize the importance of designing urban spaces that promote physical activity and contribute to overall well-being.

Physical and social neighborhood disorder in Latin American cities: a scoping review. / Desordem física e social da vizinhança em cidades da América Latina: revisão de escopo.

Neighborhood disorder is an important aspect that may influence the health of residents in urban areas. The aims of this study were to map and systematize methods for measuring physical and social neighborhood disorder in studies conducted in Latin American cities. By means of a scoping review, articles published from 2000 in English, Spanish, and Portuguese with the following descriptors were mapped: neighborhood, physical disorder, and social disorder. Searches were conducted in MEDLINE (PubMed), LILACS (Virtual Health Library), Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. Information on authorship, year, study type, locality, data source, target population, outcome, dominion, indicator, method, geographic unit, and unit of analysis was extracted. Variables from the disorder-related studies were extracted and grouped by similarity of content and themes. A total of 22 articles were identified, all published between 2012 and 2022, the majority in Brazil (n = 16). The perception of the individual was the most used method. The most frequent theme addressed in the physical disorder dominion was public streets (n = 20) and security (n = 15), in the social disorder dominion. A lack of consensus in the literature regarding variables used to measure physical and social neighborhood disorder in Latin American cities was detected. In addition to the need for standardization of the theme, studies to verify the sustainability of proposed measurement methods relevant to dynamically classify and compare urban neighborhoods and health impacts based on levels of exposure to physical and social disorder, are recommended.

A desordem da vizinhança é um importante aspecto que pode impactar a saúde de residentes em áreas urbanas. Os objetivos desta pesquisa foram mapear e sistematizar os métodos de mensuração da desordem física e social na vizinhança em estudos realizados em cidades da América Latina. Por meio de revisão de escopo, foram mapeados artigos publicados a partir do ano 2000 em inglês, espanhol e português com os seguintes descritores: vizinhança, desordem física e desordem social. As buscas foram realizadas no MEDLINE (PubMed), LILACS (Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde), Scopus, Web of Science e Biblioteca Cochrane. Foram extraídas informações sobre autoria, ano, tipo de estudo, local, fonte de dados, população-alvo, desfecho, domínio, indicador, método, unidade geográfica e unidade de análise. As variáveis dos estudos relacionadas à desordem foram extraídas e agrupadas pela similaridade dos conteúdos e temas. Foram identificados 22 artigos, publicados entre 2012 e 2022, sendo a maioria do Brasil (n = 16). A percepção do indivíduo foi o método mais utilizado. O tema mais frequentemente abordado no domínio da desordem física foi vias públicas (n = 20), enquanto no domínio social foi segurança (n = 15). Detectou-se ausência de consenso na literatura quanto às variáveis utilizadas para aferir a desordem física e social da vizinhança em cidades da América Latina. Além da necessidade de padronização do tema, recomendam-se estudos que verifiquem a sustentabilidade de métodos de mensuração propostos, relevantes para classificar e comparar, de forma dinâmica, vizinhanças urbanas e os impactos na saúde com base nos níveis de exposição à desordem física e social.

El desorden del vecindario es un aspecto importante que puede influir en la salud de los residentes en áreas urbanas. Los objetivos fueron mapear y sistematizar los métodos de medición del desorden físico y social en el vecindario en estudios realizados en ciudades de América Latina. Por medio de una revisión de alcance, fueron mapeados artículos publicados a partir del año 2000 en inglés, español y portugués, que poseían los siguientes descriptores: vecindario, desorden físico y desorden social. Las búsquedas se realizaron en MEDLINE (PubMed), LILACS (Biblioteca Virtual en Salud), Scopus, Web of Science y Librería Cochrane. Se extrajeron informaciones sobre la autoría, el año, el tipo de estudio, la ubicación, la fuente de datos, la población objetivo, el resultado, el dominio, el indicador, el método, la unidad geográfica y la unidad de análisis. Las variables de los estudios relacionados con el desorden fueron extraídas y agrupadas por la similitud de los contenidos y temas. Fueron identificados 22 artículos, todos publicados entre 2012 y 2022, siendo la mayoría de Brasil (n = 16). La percepción del individuo fue el método más utilizado. El tema más frecuente abordado en el ámbito del desorden físico fue el de las vías públicas (n = 20) y seguridad (n = 15), en lo social. Se detectó una falta de consenso en la literatura en cuanto a las variables utilizadas para medir el desorden físico y social del vecindario en ciudades de América Latina. Además de la necesidad de estandarización del tema, se recomiendan estudios que verifiquen la sostenibilidad de los métodos de medición propuestos, relevantes para clasificar y comparar, de forma dinámica, los vecindarios urbanos y los impactos en la salud con base en niveles de exposición a desorden físico y social.

Is Walk Score Associated With Physical Activity and Screen Time in Brazilian Older Adults?

This study aimed to examine the relationship between Walk Score index with walking to commuting, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, and screen time in older adults. Georeferenced addresses were entered into the Walk Score platform. Walking to commute and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity were assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and categorized according to the World Health Organization recommendations. Screen time was analyzed through self-reported time watching television/being on the computer. We used binary logistic regression to estimate the association between variables. Older adults who lived in places with higher Walk Score had a higher prevalence of walking to commuting (odds ratio = 1.73; 95% confidence interval [1.18, 2.55]) and engaging in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (odds ratio = 1.76; 95% confidence interval [1.05, 2.98]). A relationship also was observed between higher Walk Score and more time in screen time (odds ratio = 1.67; 95% confidence interval [1.19, 2.34]). The results showed that residing in a more walkable neighborhood increased the chances of the older adults spending 3 hr or more in front of a screen.

Describing physical activity in public open spaces in Brazil: Active City, Healthy City Program / Descrevendo a atividade física em espaços públicos abertos no Brasil: Programa Cidade Ativa, Cidade Saudável

This study aimed to describe the physical activity (PA) in public open spaces (POS) in a medi-um-sized city in Brazil. The System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) was applied to evaluate a representative sample of users in 10 POS which received actions from the Active City, Healthy City Program. The places were evaluated four days a week (Tuesday, Wednes-day, Saturday, and Sunday) at four times (8 am, 10 am, 2 pm, and 4 pm). The proportion of users by gender, age group, skin color, and PA level was compared between the POS using the chi-square test for heterogeneity in the STATA software (p<0.05). As main results, 32,768 scans were performed in 64 target areas and identified 8,634 individuals. The highest proportion of people were males (58%), adults (38%), with white skin color (97%), and in light or moderate PA (76%). Except for skin color, there was a significant difference in the proportion of all other variables between the POS (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the POS was more commonly used by men, adults, and people of white skin color for light and moderate PA. Based on the results, program managers could reallocate resources to increase utilization and PA at each place

O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever a atividade física (AF) em espaços públicos abertos (EPA) em uma cidade de médio porte do Brasil. O System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) foi utilizado para avaliar uma amostra representativa de frequentadores de 10 EPA que receberam ações do programa Cidade Ativa, Cidade Saudável. Os locais foram avaliados quatro dias da semana (terça-feira, quarta-feira, sábado, domingo) em quatro horários (8h, 10h, 14h, 16h). A proporção de frequentadores por sexo, faixa etária, cor de pele e nível de AF foi comparada entre os EPA pelo teste do qui-quadrado para heterogeneidade no software STATA (p < 0,05). Como resultados principais, foram realizados 32.768 scans em 64 áreas-alvo e 8.634 frequentadores foram identificados. Foi observada maior proporção de pessoas do sexo masculino (58%), adultos (38%), de cor de pele branca (97%) e em AF de intensidade leve ou moderada (76%). Com exceção da cor da pele, houve diferença significante na proporção das demais variáveis entre os EPA (p < 0,05). Em conclusão, os EPA são mais comumente utilizados por homens, pessoas adultas, de cor de pele branca e para a prática de AF de intensidade leve e moderada. Com base nos resultados, os gestores do programa poderiam realocar recursos para aumentar a utilização e a AF em cada local

Geocoding processes in cohort studies: methods applied in the EpiFloripa Aging / Processos de geocodificação em estudos de coorte: métodos aplicados no EpiFloripa Idoso

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To describe the process and epidemiological implications of georeferencing in EpiFloripa Aging samples (2009-2019). METHOD The EpiFloripa Aging Cohort Study sought to investigate and monitor the living and health conditions of the older adult population (≥ 60) of Florianópolis in three study waves (2009/2010, 2013/2014, 2017/2019). With an automatic geocoding tool, the residential addresses were spatialized, allowing to investigate the effect of the georeferencing sample losses regarding 19 variables, evaluated in the three waves. The influence of different neighborhood definitions (census tracts, Euclidean buffers, and buffers across the street network) was examined in the results of seven variables: area, income, residential density, mixed land use, connectivity, health unit count, and public open space count. Pearson's correlation coefficients were calculated to evaluate the differences between neighborhood definitions according to three variables: contextual income, residential density, and land use diversity. RESULT The losses imposed by geocoding (6%, n = 240) caused no statistically significant difference between the total sample and the geocoded sample. The analysis of the study variables suggests that the geocoding process may have included a higher proportion of participants with better income, education, and living conditions. The correlation coefficients showed little correspondence between measures calculated by the three neighborhood definitions (r = 0.37-0.54). The statistical difference between the variables calculated by buffers and census tracts highlights limitations in their use in the description of geospatial attributes. CONCLUSION Despite the challenges related to geocoding, such as inconsistencies in addresses, adequate correction and verification mechanisms provided a high rate of assignment of geographic coordinates, the findings suggest that adopting buffers, favored by geocoding, represents a potential for spatial epidemiological analyses by improving the representation of environmental attributes and the understanding of health outcomes.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Descrever o processo e as implicações epidemiológicas do georreferenciamento nas amostras do EpiFloripa Idoso (2009-2019). MÉTODO O estudo de coorte EpiFloripa Idoso buscou investigar e acompanhar as condições de vida e saúde da população idosa (≥ 60) de Florianópolis em três ondas de estudo (2009/2010, 2013/2014, 2017/2019). Com uma ferramenta de geocodificação automática, os endereços residenciais foram espacializados, permitindo a investigação do efeito das perdas amostrais do georreferenciamento em relação a 19 variáveis, avaliadas nas três ondas. A influência de diferentes definições de vizinhança (setores censitários, buffers euclidianos e buffers pela rede de ruas) foi examinada nos resultados de sete variáveis: área, renda, densidade residencial, uso misto do solo, conectividade, contagem de unidades de saúde, e contagem de espaços livres públicos. Coeficientes de correlação de Pearson foram calculados para avaliar as diferenças entre as definições de vizinhança de acordo com três variáveis: renda contextual, densidade residencial e diversidade de uso do solo. RESULTADO As perdas impostas pela geocodificação (6%, n = 240) não ocasionaram diferença estatística significativa entre a amostra total e a georreferenciada. A análise das variáveis do estudo sugere que o processo de geocodificação pode ter incluído uma maior proporção de participantes com melhor nível de renda, escolaridade e condições de vida. Os coeficientes de correlação evidenciaram pouca correspondência entre medidas calculadas pelas três definições de vizinhança (r = 0,37-0,54). A diferença estatística entre as variáveis calculadas por buffers e setores censitários ressalta limitações no uso destes na descrição dos atributos geoespaciais. CONCLUSÃO Apesar dos desafios relacionados à geocodificação, como inconsistências nos endereços, adequados mecanismos de correção e verificação propiciaram elevada taxa de atribuição de coordenadas geográficas. Os achados sugerem que a adoção de buffers, favorecida pela geocodificação, representa uma potencialidade para análises epidemiológicas espaciais ao aprimorar a representação dos atributos do ambiente e a compreensão dos desfechos de saúde.

Desordem física e social da vizinhança em cidades da América Latina: revisão de escopo / Desorden físico y social del vecindario en las ciudades de América Latina: revisión de alcance / Physical and social neighborhood disorder in Latin American cities: a scoping review

Resumo: A desordem da vizinhança é um importante aspecto que pode impactar a saúde de residentes em áreas urbanas. Os objetivos desta pesquisa foram mapear e sistematizar os métodos de mensuração da desordem física e social na vizinhança em estudos realizados em cidades da América Latina. Por meio de revisão de escopo, foram mapeados artigos publicados a partir do ano 2000 em inglês, espanhol e português com os seguintes descritores: vizinhança, desordem física e desordem social. As buscas foram realizadas no MEDLINE (PubMed), LILACS (Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde), Scopus, Web of Science e Biblioteca Cochrane. Foram extraídas informações sobre autoria, ano, tipo de estudo, local, fonte de dados, população-alvo, desfecho, domínio, indicador, método, unidade geográfica e unidade de análise. As variáveis dos estudos relacionadas à desordem foram extraídas e agrupadas pela similaridade dos conteúdos e temas. Foram identificados 22 artigos, publicados entre 2012 e 2022, sendo a maioria do Brasil (n = 16). A percepção do indivíduo foi o método mais utilizado. O tema mais frequentemente abordado no domínio da desordem física foi vias públicas (n = 20), enquanto no domínio social foi segurança (n = 15). Detectou-se ausência de consenso na literatura quanto às variáveis utilizadas para aferir a desordem física e social da vizinhança em cidades da América Latina. Além da necessidade de padronização do tema, recomendam-se estudos que verifiquem a sustentabilidade de métodos de mensuração propostos, relevantes para classificar e comparar, de forma dinâmica, vizinhanças urbanas e os impactos na saúde com base nos níveis de exposição à desordem física e social.

Resumen: El desorden del vecindario es un aspecto importante que puede influir en la salud de los residentes en áreas urbanas. Los objetivos fueron mapear y sistematizar los métodos de medición del desorden físico y social en el vecindario en estudios realizados en ciudades de América Latina. Por medio de una revisión de alcance, fueron mapeados artículos publicados a partir del año 2000 en inglés, español y portugués, que poseían los siguientes descriptores: vecindario, desorden físico y desorden social. Las búsquedas se realizaron en MEDLINE (PubMed), LILACS (Biblioteca Virtual en Salud), Scopus, Web of Science y Librería Cochrane. Se extrajeron informaciones sobre la autoría, el año, el tipo de estudio, la ubicación, la fuente de datos, la población objetivo, el resultado, el dominio, el indicador, el método, la unidad geográfica y la unidad de análisis. Las variables de los estudios relacionados con el desorden fueron extraídas y agrupadas por la similitud de los contenidos y temas. Fueron identificados 22 artículos, todos publicados entre 2012 y 2022, siendo la mayoría de Brasil (n = 16). La percepción del individuo fue el método más utilizado. El tema más frecuente abordado en el ámbito del desorden físico fue el de las vías públicas (n = 20) y seguridad (n = 15), en lo social. Se detectó una falta de consenso en la literatura en cuanto a las variables utilizadas para medir el desorden físico y social del vecindario en ciudades de América Latina. Además de la necesidad de estandarización del tema, se recomiendan estudios que verifiquen la sostenibilidad de los métodos de medición propuestos, relevantes para clasificar y comparar, de forma dinámica, los vecindarios urbanos y los impactos en la salud con base en niveles de exposición a desorden físico y social.

Abstract: Neighborhood disorder is an important aspect that may influence the health of residents in urban areas. The aims of this study were to map and systematize methods for measuring physical and social neighborhood disorder in studies conducted in Latin American cities. By means of a scoping review, articles published from 2000 in English, Spanish, and Portuguese with the following descriptors were mapped: neighborhood, physical disorder, and social disorder. Searches were conducted in MEDLINE (PubMed), LILACS (Virtual Health Library), Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. Information on authorship, year, study type, locality, data source, target population, outcome, dominion, indicator, method, geographic unit, and unit of analysis was extracted. Variables from the disorder-related studies were extracted and grouped by similarity of content and themes. A total of 22 articles were identified, all published between 2012 and 2022, the majority in Brazil (n = 16). The perception of the individual was the most used method. The most frequent theme addressed in the physical disorder dominion was public streets (n = 20) and security (n = 15), in the social disorder dominion. A lack of consensus in the literature regarding variables used to measure physical and social neighborhood disorder in Latin American cities was detected. In addition to the need for standardization of the theme, studies to verify the sustainability of proposed measurement methods relevant to dynamically classify and compare urban neighborhoods and health impacts based on levels of exposure to physical and social disorder, are recommended.

Assessement of the quality of bicycle paths and its correlation with bicycle use in florianópolis / Análise da qualidade das ciclovias e sua relação com o uso de bicicleta em florianópolis

ABSTRACT Bicycle paths are important infrastructures in the cities to promote active commuting. Thus, understanding the information inherent to their quality might help to understand their effects on human behavior. This study aimed at assessing the quality of the bike paths in the city of Florianopolisl by using the QualiCicle instrument. SOPARC tool was used to verify the use profile. A total of 38 cycling axes with a length of 54 km were selected. The qualitative analysis was classified as sufficient, with an overall average of 1.61 points. A total of 6,113 cyclists were observed; the majority was adult men who used to cycle in moderate intensity. Better-quality bike paths had a greater number of cyclists (50.5%). The logistic regression analyzes showed that young people are less likely to use cycle paths classified as 'good' ones (OR: 0.40; 95% CI: 0.24-0.67). Considering per category, there is a greater chance of women to use bike paths with a 'good/excellent' infrastructure quality, and a 'sufficient' and 'good/excellent' signalization. It is concluded that Florianopolis has an adequate bikeway network; however, the infrastructure distribution and the cycle path connections are irregular along the city regions. A better quality of the cycling infrastructures can promote greater use by women and the elderly, groups that perform less physical activity.

RESUMO Ciclovias são estruturas importantes nas cidades para promover o deslocamento ativo. Assim, compreender as informações inerentes à sua qualidade pode auxiliar na compreensão de seus efeitos sobre o comportamento humano. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a qualidade das ciclovias de Florianópolis por meio do instrumento QualiCiclo. O instrumento SOPARC foi utilizado para verificar o perfil de uso. Foram selecionados ao todo 38 eixos de ciclovias com 54 km de extensão, sendo a análise qualitativa classificada como suficiente, com média geral de 1,61 pontos. Foram observados 6.113 ciclistas dos quais a Mayria eram homens, adultos e em intensidade moderada. As ciclovias de melhor qualidade possuem Mayr número de ciclistas (50,5%). As análises de regressão logística mostraram que, usualmente, jovens possuem menos chance de utilizarem as ciclovias classificadas como "boa" (OR:0,40; IC95%: 0,24-0,67). Quando observado por categoria, há uma Mayr chance de mulheres utilizarem os eixos de ciclovia que possuem "boa/ótima" qualidade de infraestrutura e "suficiente" e "boa/ótima" qualidade de sinalização. Conclui-se que Florianópolis possui uma rede de ciclovias adequada, contudo, a distribuição das estruturas e conexão de ciclovia é irregular entre as regiões da cidade. Uma Mayr qualidade da infraestrutura cicloviária pode promover Mayr uso por mulheres e idosos, grupos que menos realizam atividade física.

Neighbourhood walkability and mental health in older adults: A cross-sectional analysis from EpiFloripa Aging Study.

This study aims to analyse the association between walkability index and depressive symptoms and cognitive impairment and test the mediating role of moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in this relationship among older adults from Florianópolis, Brazil. This is cross-sectional research with data from the third wave of the EpiFloripa Aging cohort study, conducted in 2017-2019. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the short version of the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), and cognitive impairment, using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scales. The neighbourhood environment was assessed using a walkability index, which considered 500-m network buffers around the participants' homes. Binary logistic regression analysis the association between the walkability index (quartile) and mental health outcomes (yes vs. no). Structural equation modelling evaluated the mediation between the walkability index and cognitive impairment by MVPA with an estimator of dichotomous variables. 1,162 people participated in the study (61.5% women, average age = 73.1). Older adults residing in places with a high and highest walkability index were 38% and 44% less likely to have cognitive impairment, respective. There was no association between depressive symptoms and walkability index in crude nor adjusted analysis. Engaging in MVPA had a partial but not significant effect (14%; p = 0.087), showing a tendency for this relationship to be partially explained by the greater engagement in physical activities in places with greater walkability. Policy planning to prevent and reduce the risks of cognitive impairment should consider factors of the physical environment as determinants in older adults.

Time trends of physical activity for leisure and transportation in the Brazilian adult population: results from Vigitel, 2010-2019.

This time-series study examined a 10-year historical series of the physical activity prevalence for leisure and transportation in the Brazilian adult population. Information from 512,969 adults interviewed from the Vigitel between 2010 and 2019 was analyzed. Individuals who reported practicing at least 150 minutes/week of moderate-intensity physical activity or at least 75 minutes/week of vigorous-intensity physical activity were considered active during leisure time. Individuals who reported walking or cycling to/from work, course, or school at least 30 minutes/day, equivalent to at least 150 minutes/week of moderate-intensity physical activity, were considered active during transportation. The prevalence of physical activity for leisure and transportation was calculated annually and stratified by sex, age group, schooling, and race/skin color. The segmented regression model was applied to analyze the time series. Annual percent change and average annual percent change were calculated. Over time, the prevalence of physical activity for leisure increased, and the prevalence of physical activity for transportation decreased. The highest prevalence of physical activity for leisure was observed among males, young individuals, and those with high education. Older adults, those with high education, and white people presented the lowest prevalence of active transport. Policymakers should propose strategies that encourage and facilitate physical activity for leisure in women, individuals aged ≥ 35 years, and those with less education (< 12 years), and physical activity for transportation among older adults (≥ 60 years), those with high education (≥ 12 years), and white people.

Exposure to Public Open Spaces and Leisure-Time Physical Activity: An Analysis of Adults in Primary Health Care in Brazil.

Public open spaces (POS) enable many leisure activities. However, few studies have evaluated how different exposures to POS with structured physical activities (PA) could affect the leisure-time PA (LTPA) of adults with chronic diseases. This study aimed to analyze the associations between different exposures to POS and LTPA in adults in primary health care in Brazil. In 2019, a cross-sectional study was conducted with a representative sample of 615 users of 15 Basic Health Units in São José dos Pinhais. The POS exposure was measured by the presence and distance (GIS), and the usage and frequency of usage were self-reported. The IPAQ identified walking and moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA). Data were analyzed with multilevel Poisson regression adjusted for the possible confounders (sex, age, economic level, chronic diseases). The prevalence of walking and MVPA ≥150 min/week was 12% and 14%, respectively. The usage of POS increased by 52% the likelihood of walking ≥10 min/week (PR: 1.52; 95%CI: 1.02-2.21), while usage ≥2 times/week increased by 2 times the likelihood of this outcome (PR: 2.01; 95%CI: 1.28-3.05). The usage of POS increased by 2.7 times the likelihood of MVPA ≥10 min/week (PR: 2.73; 95%CI: 1.86-3.97), and usage ≥2 times/week increased by 3.5 times the likelihood of this outcome (PR: 3.45; 95%CI: 2.14-5.42). Finally, the usage of POS increased by 3 times the likelihood of MVPA ≥150 min/week (PR: 3.03; 95%CI: 1.92-4.74), while usage ≥2 times/week increased by 3.8 times the likelihood of this outcome (PR: 3.81; 95%CI: 2.19-6.38). In conclusion, only the usage of POS is positively associated with walking and MVPA in the leisure time of adult primary health care users.

Geospatial indicators of bikeability index as cycle-friendly city design: a systematic review / Indicadores geoespaciais do índice de bikeability como projeto de cidade amiga da bicicleta: uma revisão sistemática

The aim was to identify the main geospatial indicators used in bikeability index through constructive methodological studies. The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO under the registration number CRD42020166795, following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guide. Original studies indexed in the electronic databases Lilacs, Pu-bMed, Science Direct, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, Trid, and Web of Science were selected. The review also included grey literature through Google Scholar, OpenGrey, ProQuest, and a list of references and documents pointed out by experts. After removing duplicates and analyzing titles and abstracts, the review considered only 11 out of the 703 initial papers, which provided 100 environment in-dicators with varied definitions and metrics for estimating the Bikeability index. The census tract was the most used unit of the analysis found in the papers, which used GIS (Geographic Informa-tion System) data besides self-reported information on environmental characteristics. The results indicate that the most usual indicators relate to infrastructure ­ existence and width of bike lanes ­ destination, slope, speed limit, and connectivity and intersections. The creation and maintenance of bicycle-friendly environments could consider the implementation of more infrastructure on flat and connected streets with changes in speed limits in neighborhoods, especially in regions with low density of intersections, to decrease accidents and increase cyclists' perception of safety.

Identificar os principais indicadores geoespaciais sobre a construção do índice de bikeability. O protocolo do estudo foi registrado no PROSPERO, sob o número de registro CRD42020166795, seguiu o guia (PRIS-MA). Foram selecionados estudos originais indexados nas bases de dados eletrônicas Lilacs, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, Trid, Web of Science. A revisão também incluiu literatura cinza, além da lista de referências e documentos identificados por especialistas. A busca inicial identificou 703 artigos, após a retirada das duplicatas e análise de títulos, resumos e texto completo, 11 artigos foram incluídos na revisão. Um total de 100 indicadores geoespaciais do ambiente construído foram identificados com diferentes defini-ções e métricas para estimar o índice de bikeability. O setor censitário foi a unidade de análise mais utilizada nos artigos, que utilizaram dados de SIG (Sistema de Informações Geográficas) além de informações autorre-feridas sobre características ambientais. Os resultados indicam que os indicadores mais usuais dizem respeito à infraestrutura ­ existência e largura das ciclovias ­ destino, inclinação, limite de velocidade, conectividade e interseções. A criação e manutenção de ambientes amigos da bicicleta poderia contemplar a implantação de mais infraestrutura em vias planas e conectadas com mudanças nos limites de velocidade nos bairros, principalmente em regiões com baixa densidade de cruzamentos, para diminuir os acidentes e aumentar a percepção de segurança dos ciclistas.

Time trends of physical activity for leisure and transportation in the Brazilian adult population: results from Vigitel, 2010-2019 / Tendências temporais da atividade física para lazer e transporte na população adulta brasileira: resultados do Vigitel, 2010-2019 / Tendencias temporales de la actividad física para el ocio y el transporte en la población adulta brasileña: resultados del Vigitel, 2010-2019

This time-series study examined a 10-year historical series of the physical activity prevalence for leisure and transportation in the Brazilian adult population. Information from 512,969 adults interviewed from the Vigitel between 2010 and 2019 was analyzed. Individuals who reported practicing at least 150 minutes/week of moderate-intensity physical activity or at least 75 minutes/week of vigorous-intensity physical activity were considered active during leisure time. Individuals who reported walking or cycling to/from work, course, or school at least 30 minutes/day, equivalent to at least 150 minutes/week of moderate-intensity physical activity, were considered active during transportation. The prevalence of physical activity for leisure and transportation was calculated annually and stratified by sex, age group, schooling, and race/skin color. The segmented regression model was applied to analyze the time series. Annual percent change and average annual percent change were calculated. Over time, the prevalence of physical activity for leisure increased, and the prevalence of physical activity for transportation decreased. The highest prevalence of physical activity for leisure was observed among males, young individuals, and those with high education. Older adults, those with high education, and white people presented the lowest prevalence of active transport. Policymakers should propose strategies that encourage and facilitate physical activity for leisure in women, individuals aged ≥ 35 years, and those with less education (< 12 years), and physical activity for transportation among older adults (≥ 60 years), those with high education (≥ 12 years), and white people.

Este estudo de série temporal analisou a prevalência de atividade física para lazer e transporte na população adulta brasileira em uma série histórica de uma década. Foram analisadas informações de 512.969 adultos entrevistados pelo Vigitel entre 2010 e 2019. Os indivíduos que relataram praticar pelo menos 150 minutos/semana de atividade física moderada ou pelo menos 75 minutos/semana de atividade física vigorosa foram considerados ativos durante seu lazer. Os indivíduos que relataram caminhar ou andar de bicicleta para/do trabalho, curso ou escola por pelo menos 30 minutos/dia (equivalente a pelo menos 150 minutos/semana de atividade física moderada) foram considerados ativos durante seu transporte. A prevalência de atividade física para lazer e transporte foi calculada anualmente e estratificada por sexo, faixa etária, escolaridade e cor da pele/raça. Modelo de regressão segmentada foi aplicado para analisar a série temporal. Foram calculadas as mudanças percentuais anuais e as mudanças médias anuais. Com o tempo, a prevalência de atividade física para o lazer aumentou e a prevalência de atividade física para o transporte diminuiu. A maior prevalência de atividade física para lazer foi observada entre homens, jovens e pessoas com Ensino Médio completo. Idosos, pessoas com Ensino Médio e brancos apresentaram a menor prevalência de transporte ativo. Formuladores de políticas devem propor estratégias que incentivem e facilitem a atividade física para o lazer em mulheres, indivíduos com idade ≥ 35 anos e pessoas com baixa escolaridade (< 12 anos), e atividade física para transporte entre idosos (≥ 60 anos), aqueles com Ensino Médio completo (≥ 12 anos) e pessoas brancas.

Este estudio de serie temporal analizó la prevalencia de la actividad física para el ocio y el transporte en la población adulta brasileña en una serie histórica de una década. Se analizaron las informaciones de 512.969 adultos, entrevistados por Vigitel entre 2010 y 2019. Las personas que informaron practicar al menos 150 minutos/semana de actividad física moderada o al menos 75 minutos/semana de actividad física vigorosa se consideraron activas durante su tiempo libre. Las personas que informaron caminar o andar en bicicleta al/desde el trabajo, curso o escuela por al menos 30 minutos/día (equivalente al menos a 150 minutos/semana de actividad física moderada) se consideraron activas durante su transporte. La prevalencia de la actividad física para el ocio y el transporte se calculó anualmente y se estratificó por sexo, grupo de edad, escolaridad y color de piel/raza. Se aplicó un modelo de regresión segmentada para analizar la serie temporal. Se calcularon las variaciones porcentuales anuales y las variaciones porcentuales medias anuales. Con el paso del tiempo, la prevalencia de la actividad física para el ocio tuvo un aumento y una reducción para el transporte. La mayor prevalencia de actividad física para el ocio se observó entre hombres, jóvenes y personas con educación secundaria. Los ancianos, las personas con educación secundaria y los blancos tuvieron una prevalencia más baja en el transporte activo. Los formuladores de políticas deben proponer estrategias de fomento a la actividad física para el ocio en mujeres, personas ≥ 35 años y personas con baja escolaridad (< 12 años), y la actividad física para el transporte entre los ancianos (≥ 60 años), aquellos con educación secundaria (≥ 12 años) y personas blancas.

International evaluation of the Microscale Audit of Pedestrian Streetscapes (MAPS) Global instrument: comparative assessment between local and remote online observers.

OBJECTIVES: The use of online imagery by non-local observers to conduct remote, centralized collection of streetscape audit data in international studies has the potential to enhance efficiency of collection and comparability of such data for research on built environments and health. The objectives of the study were to measure (1) the consistency in responses between local in-field observers and non-local remote online observers and (2) the reliability between in-country online observers and non-local remote online observers using the Microscale Audit of Pedestrian Streetscapes Global tool to characterize pedestrian-related features along streets in five countries. METHODS: Consistency and inter-rater reliability were analyzed between local and non-local observers on a pooled database of 200 routes in five study regions (Melbourne, Australia; Ghent, Belgium; Curitiba, Brazil; Hong Kong, China; and Valencia, Spain) for microscale environmental feature subscales and item-level variables using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). RESULTS: A local in-field versus remote online comparison had an ICC of 0.75 (95 % CI: 0.68-0.80) for the grand total score. An ICC of 0.91 (95 % CI: 0.88-0.93) was found for the local online versus remote online comparison. Positive subscales yielded stronger results in comparison to negative subscales, except for the similarly poor-performing positive aesthetics/social characteristics. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated remote audits of microscale built environments using online imagery had good reliability with local in-field audits and excellent reliability with local online audits. Results generally supported remote online environmental audits as comparable to local online audits. This identification of low-cost and efficient data acquisition methods is important for expanding research on microscale built environments and physical activity globally.

Padrão de utilização de espaços públicos abertos e nível de atividade física em São José dos Pinhais, Paraná / Pattern of use of public open spaces and physical activity levels in São José dos Pinhais, Brazil / Patrón de uso de espacios públicos abiertos y niveles de actividade física en São José dos Pinhais, Brasil

RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a associação entre o padrão de utilização de espaços públicos abertos (EPA) e o nível de atividade física (AF) de intensidade moderada a vigorosa (AFMV) em São José dos Pinhais, Paraná. Sexo, faixa etária e AF foram identificados com o System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC). A AFMV foi analisada considerando as categorias de sexo, local, dia da semana, horário e período. Foram realizadas 2.591 observações de pessoas e a proporção de AFMV foi de 35%. O sexo feminino apresentou associação positiva com a AFMV (OR: 1,57; IC95%: 1,32-1,86), enquanto a utilização dos EPA no final de semana (OR: 0,55; IC95%: 0,46-0,65) e no período da tarde apresentou associação inversa com o desfecho (OR: 0,57; IC95%: 0,48-0,67). Conclui-se que mulheres e aqueles que utilizam os locais durante a semana ou pela manhã apresentam maiores chances de praticarem AFMV.

ABSTRACT This study aimed to analyze the association between the pattern of use of public open spaces (POS) and moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in São José dos Pinhais, Brazil. Sex, age group, and physical activity intensity level (PA) were identified through the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC). MVPA was analyzed by sex, place, day of the week, and time. We conducted 2,591 person observations, and the proportion of MVPA was 35%. The female sex was positively associated with MVPA (OR: 1.57; 95% CI: 1.32-1.86), while the use of POS on weekend (OR: 0.55; 95% CI: 0.46 -0.65) and in the afternoon showed an inverse association with outcome (OR: 0.57; 95% CI: 0.48-0.67). In conclusion, women and the people who use POS during the week or in the morning are more likely to practice MVPA.

RESUMEN El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar la asociación entre el patrón de uso de los espacios públicos abiertos (EPA) y el nivel de actividad física moderada a vigorosa (AFMV) en São José dos Pinhais, Brasil. Sexo, edad y AF fueron evaluados con el System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC). La AFMV se analizó según sexo, ubicación, día de la semana, hora y período del día. Se hicieron 2.591 observaciones de personas y la proporción de AFMV fue de 35%. El sexo femenino se asoció positivamente con AFMV (OR: 1,57; IC 95%: 1,32-1,86), mientras que el uso de EPA en lo fine de semana (OR: 0,55; IC 95%: 0,46-0,65) y por la tarde mostró una asociación inversa con el desfecho (OR: 0,57; IC 95%: 0,48-0,67). Se concluye que mujeres, las personas que utilizan los lugares durante la semana o por la mañana, tienen más probabilidades de practicar AFMV. Palabras-clave Actividad motora; Ejercicio físico; Parques recreativos; Área urbana; Planificación ambiental; Entorno construido; Técnicas de observación conductual.

Characteristics of the schools' surrounding environment, distance from home and active commuting in adolescents from Curitiba, Brazil. / Características do ambiente no entorno de escolas, distância da residência e deslocamento ativo em adolescentes de Curitiba, Brasil.

INTRODUCTION: Active commuting to school could help increasing physical activity levels among adolescents. However, there is limited understanding on how the relationship between the environment in school surroundings, as well the distance to school, could affect this behavior. AIM: To analyze the characteristics of the environment and distance between house and school with objective measures and their association with active commuting between adolescents of Curitiba, Brazil. METHODS: 493 adolescents were interviewed and 124 schools evaluated. The study variables included the schools' surroundings accessibility characteristics obtained through systematic observation, and the distance between home to school was determined through Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data. RESULTS: The presence of "safety signs" was inversely associated with active commuting (PR = 0.78; 95%CI 0.67-0.91; p = 0.003), as well distance 1,501-3,000 m (PR = 0.53; 95%CI 0.40 - 0.71; p < 0.001) and ≥ 3,501 m (PR 0.29; 95%CI 0.18 - 0.45; p < 0.001). Overall, schools' surroundings showed walking friendly characteristics. CONCLUSION: Traffic safety and distance to school were associated with active commuting to school among the study participants. Policies aiming at integrating access to school and traffic safety could help to promoting active commuting among adolescents.

Características do ambiente no entorno de escolas, distância da residência e deslocamento ativo em adolescentes de Curitiba, Brasil / Characteristics of the schools' surrounding environment, distance from home and active commuting in adolescents from Curitiba, Brazil

RESUMO: Introdução: A prática de deslocamento ativo para a escola pode ser uma maneira de aumentar a atividade física entre os adolescentes, no entanto pouco se sabe sobre o ambiente no entorno das escolas, bem como a distância até a escola pode afetar esse comportamento. Objetivo: Analisar a associação entre as características do ambiente no entorno da escola, a distância da residência e o deslocamento ativo de adolescentes de Curitiba, Brasil. Métodos: Quatrocentos e noventa e três adolescentes foram entrevistados e 124 escolas foram avaliadas. As variáveis do estudo incluíram as características de acessibilidade no entorno da escola por observação sistemática e a distância da residência até a escola por Sistemas de Informações Geográficas (SIG). Resultados: A presença de "placas de segurança" (RP = 0,78; IC95% 0,66 - 0,91; p = 0,003) apresentou associação inversa ao deslocamento ativo dos adolescentes, bem como as distâncias 1.500-3.500 m (RP = 0,53; IC95% 0,40 - 0,71; p < 0,001) e ≥ 3.501 m (RP = 0,29; IC95% 0,18 - 0,45; p < 0,001). No geral, o entorno das escolas se mostrou favorável à caminhada. Conclusão: A segurança no trânsito e a distância entre a escola e a residência associaram-se com o deslocamento ativo entre adolescentes do estudo. Políticas que integrem acesso a escolas próximas à residência e segurança no trânsito podem contribuir para o incentivo ao deslocamento ativo até a escola entre adolescentes.

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Active commuting to school could help increasing physical activity levels among adolescents. However, there is limited understanding on how the relationship between the environment in school surroundings, as well the distance to school, could affect this behavior. Aim: To analyze the characteristics of the environment and distance between house and school with objective measures and their association with active commuting between adolescents of Curitiba, Brazil. Methods: 493 adolescents were interviewed and 124 schools evaluated. The study variables included the schools' surroundings accessibility characteristics obtained through systematic observation, and the distance between home to school was determined through Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data. Results: The presence of "safety signs" was inversely associated with active commuting (PR = 0.78; 95%CI 0.67-0.91; p = 0.003), as well distance 1,501-3,000 m (PR = 0.53; 95%CI 0.40 - 0.71; p < 0.001) and ≥ 3,501 m (PR 0.29; 95%CI 0.18 - 0.45; p < 0.001). Overall, schools' surroundings showed walking friendly characteristics. Conclusion: Traffic safety and distance to school were associated with active commuting to school among the study participants. Policies aiming at integrating access to school and traffic safety could help to promoting active commuting among adolescents.

Open public spaces and physical activity facilities: study of systematic observation of the environment / Espaços públicos de lazer e estruturas para atividade física: estudo de observação sistemática do ambiente

Abstract The aim of this study was to investigate the quantity and quality of open public spaces (OPS) and physical activity (PA) facilities in Florianopolis, Santa Catarina. A descriptive survey was carried out in 2015 on the quantity, type and quality of OPS and PA facilities. The quality of OPS and PA facilities were assessed by systematic observation. A quality index of OPS (score -3 to 6 points) was divided into three categories, poor (category ≤0), average (0.1 to 2.9) and good quality (category ≥3). For analysis, descriptive statistics were used. Of the 214 OPS, the highest proportion was squares/gardens (n = 128, 59.8%). Of the 214 OPS, 59.8% were squares/gardens. About 51.9% (n = 111) of OPS had good quality. A higher proportion of comfort items obtained good quality, such as lighting (54.7%), trash cans (45.8%) and garden benches (55.1%). In more than 60.0% of OPS, there were no incivilities. Of the 377 PA facilities identified, 53.6% presented good quality and 13.8% poor quality. Playgrounds (29.4%), outdoor gyms (15.9%) and soccer fields/courts (14.9%) were more frequent, only the latter less than half had good quality (28,6%). There were no PA facilities in 29.0% of OPS. A higher proportion of OPSs have good quality, but less than half require improvement, comfort, less incivility and greater diversity of PA facilities. This may promote greater visits to OPS and leisure opportunities, including the practice of PA.

Resumo Objetivou-se analisar a quantidade e a qualidade dos espaços públicos de lazer e estruturas para atividades físicas em Florianópolis, Santa Catarina. Realizou-se, no ano de 2015, um levantamento descritivo da quantidade, tipo e qualidade dos espaços públicos de lazer (EPL) e estruturas para atividade física (AF). A qualidade dos EPL e estruturas para AF foi avaliada por meio de observação sistemática. Um índice de qualidade dos EPL (escore -3 a 6 pontos) foi categorizado em três níveis, qualidade ruim (categoria ≤0), média (0,1 a 2,9) e boa (categoria ≥3). Para análise fez-se uso da estatística descritiva. Dos 214 EPL, maior proporção foi de praças/jardins (n=128; 59,8%). Em 51,9% (n=111) dos EPL tinham qualidade boa. Maior proporção de itens de conforto obteve qualidade boa como iluminação (54,7%), lixeiras (45,8%) e bancos (55,1%). Em mais de 60,0% dos EPL inexistiam incivilidades. Das 377 estruturas para AF identificadas, 53,6% apresentaram qualidade boa e 13,8% qualidade ruim. Os parquinhos infantis (29,4%), academias ao ar livre (15,9%) e campos/canchas de futebol (14,9%) foram mais frequentes, apenas este último menos da metade apresentou qualidade boa (28,6%). Em 29,0% dos EPL inexistiam estruturas para AF. Maior proporção dos EPL tem boa qualidade, mas ainda menos da metade necessitam de melhorias, em conforto, menores incivilidades e maior diversidade de estruturas para AF. Isso poderá promover maior visitação aos EPL e oportunidade de lazer, incluindo a prática de AF.

Características do ambiente físico e organizacional para a prática de atividade física nas escolas de Curitiba, Brasil / Characteristics of physical activity facilities in schools of Curitiba, Brazil

O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever as características das estruturas para a prática de atividade física (AF) entre escolas públicas e privadas de Curitiba, Brasil. Estudo transversal com 114 escolas (72,8% públicas). Os respectivos professores de Educação Física (EF) (n = 114) das escolas informaram as características organizacionais. O ambiente escolar foi avaliado por meio de observação sistemática com uma ferramenta de auditoria para identificar o tipo, qualidade (não funcional, ruim, média e ex-celente) e quantidade de estruturas para AF. Os professores de EF reportaram a disponibilidade das estruturas por meio de um instrumento padronizado. Para análise, utilizou-se da distribuição de fre-quências, os testes de Qui-quadrado e U de Mann Whitney mantendo um nível de significância de 5%. Nas escolas públicas, houve maior proporção das áreas para jogos com qualidade "média" (54,6%), esportes "ruim" (29,1%), quadras individuais "ruim" (38,7%) e poliesportivas "não funcionais" (37,6%), enquanto em escolas privadas eram de qualidade "excelente" as áreas para jogos (68,9%), esportes (57,3%), quadras individuais (50,0%) e poliesportivas (47,0%) com diferença significante em todas as áreas entre as escolas (p < 0,001). Escolas públicas possuem aproximadamente um equipamento para AF a cada 100 alunos, enquanto a escolas privadas possuem o dobro (p < 0,001). A disponibilidade das estruturas foi, em geral, semelhante entre os tipos de escola, exceto no acesso a "playgrounds" e o espaço para prática de "tênis de mesa" no período do recreio foi maior em escolas privadas (p < 0,05). As escolas privadas apresentaram maior qualidade e quantidade de estruturas relacionadas à AF quando comparadas as escolas públicas

The aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of physical activity (PA) facilities and structure be-tween public and private schools of Curitiba, Brazil. Cross-sectional study conducted in 114 schools (72.8% public schools). A physical education (PE) instructor from each school (n = 114) reported about PA and PE organizational characteristics. The school environment was assessed through systematic observation tool to identify type, quality (no functional, poor, medium and excellent) and number of PA facilities. All organ-izational characteristics were reported by PE instructors through a standardized questionnaire. Data was analyzed through frequencies, chi-square and Mann Whitney U tests considering 5% of statistical signif-icance. In public schools PA facilities for play were "medium" (54.6%), sports (29.1%), individual courts "poor" (38,7%) and multi sports courts "no functional " (37.6%), whereas private schools presented facilities with "excellent" quality for play areas (68.9%), sports (57.3%), individual courts (50.0%) and multi sports courts (47.0%) with significant difference in all areas between schools (p < 0.001). Public schools had one PA equipment per 100 students, whereas private schools had twice as many equipments (p < 0.001). The availability of PA facilities was, in general, similar in both types of schools, except in access in playgrounds and table tennis areas during the recess, being higher in private schools (p < 0.05). Private schools showed greater quantity and higher quality of PA facilities than public schools

O Sistema de Informação Geográfica em pesquisas sobre ambiente, atividade física e saúde / The Geographic Information System in environment, physical activity and health researches

O Sistema de Informação Geográfica (SIG) é uma ferramenta importante para o gerenciamento e análises de dados geográficos relacionados com políticas, programas e desfechos no contexto da atividade física e saúde. O objetivo desse estudo é descrever os métodos e a aplicação do SIG para avaliar o ambiente relacionado à atividade física e a saúde. Algumas etapas são essenciais para o em-prego do SIG, incluindo desenvolvimento de conhecimentos fundamentais à operação da ferramenta, identificação e domínio dos programas computacionais adequados às características do projeto de pesquisa, aquisição dos dados espaciais, criação e análise de indicadores e por fim a representação das informações espaciais. As informações derivadas do SIG permitem uma exatidão nas análises relacionadas a comunidades amplas, como bairros e cidades. O emprego de receptor GPS (Global Positioning System) e acelerômetro, por exemplo, pode ampliar o detalhamento de informações sobre aonde, quem, quando e quais atividades físicas são realizadas. Além disto, informações obtidas por meio de observação sistemática e auto relatos podem adicionar aspectos sobre a qualidade dos locais em que as atividades físicas são realizadas. Conclui-se que o emprego do SIG, em conjunto com outros métodos, pode auxiliar a compreensão sobre o papel das mudanças ambientais e políticas públicas voltadas ao ambiente, sobre os níveis populacionais de atividade física, assim como propiciar evidências que auxiliem o planejamento de cidades mais saudáveis

The Geographic Information System (GIS) is an important tool for managing and analysing geographic data related to policies, programs and outcomes in the context of physical activity and health. The Aim of this study is to describe the methods and the application of GIS to assess the environment related to physical activity and health. Some steps are essential for the use of GIS, including development of fundamental knowledge for the operation of the tool, identification and mastery of the computational programs appropriate to the characteristics of the research project, acquisition of spatial data, creation and analysis of indicators and, finally, spatial information representation. The information derived from GIS allows accuracy in analyses related to large communities, such as neighbourhoods and cities. The use of GPS devices (Global Positioning System) and accelerometer, for example, can expand the detail of information on where, who, when and what physical activities are performed. In addition, information obtained through systematic observation and self-reports can add aspects about the quality of the places where physical activities are performed. In conclusion, the use of GIS, joining with other methods, can be helpfully to understand the role of environmental changes and public policies aimed at the environment, population levels of physical activity, besides providing evidence that helps to plan healthier citie