Social Determinants of Health and Parent and Child Physical Activity: A Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Exploration among Socioeconomically and Racially and Ethnically Diverse Families

Abstract

Purpose

To examine the associations between baseline social determinants of health (SDOH) and physical activity (PA) in children and parents cross-sectionally (baseline) and longitudinally (18-months later).

Design

Cross-sectional and longitudinal.

Setting

Family Matters Cohort Study, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota.

Sample

Parents with children aged 5-9 years (n = 1146).

Measures

Parent self-reported (1) 25 SDOH factors mapped across 5 domains and (2) parent and children moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA).

Analysis

Adjusted linear regression models.

Results

Each of the SDOH domains were positively associated with parents and children MVPA levels (all P < 0.05), except Economic Stability (all P > 0.05). Families with high family functioning reported higher MVPA among children, cross-sectionally (β 1.27; 95% CI [0.67, 1.87]) and longitudinally (β 0.87; 95% CI [0.29, 1.46]). Parents exhibited higher levels of MVPA both cross-sectionally (β 0.66; 95% CI [0.11, 1.21]) and longitudinally (β 0.73; 95% CI [0.21, 1.26]) when they had greater social capital. Children also exhibited increased MVPA (β 1.10; 95% CI [0.41, 1.79]) when living in areas with high walkability to recreational places.

Conclusion

Results indicate that SDOH may shape the PA habits of parents and children in a racially/ethnically diverse population. To advance health equity and support engagement in PA, researchers and clinicians should take into consideration SDOH factors related to a family’s educational, social, home, family functioning, and neighborhood environments.