How the built environment affects active physical activity behaviours of migrants

Migrant health has been an issue of concern in countries receiving high number of migrants. In recent years there has been studies to prove that the health of migrants deteriorate on arrival at their destination. There have... [ view full abstract ]

Migrant health has been an issue of concern in countries receiving high number of migrants. In recent years there has been studies to prove that the health of migrants deteriorate on arrival at their destination. There have also been rising levels of obesity and its related illnesses. This in part may be due to high calorie food consumption and lower levels of physical activities amongst these groups. Even though campaigns and initiatives to increase participation in physical activity have been underway, levels of physical activity amongst people have been static and may have declined in the UK. This paper sought to investigate environmental factors that discourage healthy physical activity behaviours of migrants in Birmingham. The study aimed at using in depth interviews to explore their health beliefs and behaviours.
Thirty-six participants were recruited through community settings, churches, universities and through the use of posters. All interviews were conducted in English, recorded and transcribed verbatim. Interviews were analysed using a thematic approach. Qualitative analysis using thematic approach revealed important themes such as, religious and cultural barriers, non human friendly environment, technology based activities promoting laziness. Some respondents would not use parks and green spaces for any physical activity such as walking or running because of the presence of dogs. Some women respondents were not comfortable jogging because of the presence of men smoking and engaging in anti social behaviours. They also found it tempting to exercise because of escalators, automatic doors and elevators everywhere. In this research it was found that culture and religion form underlying factors for not engaging in physical activity so therefore public health activities, interventions and promotions should take into consideration the diversity in terms of culture and religion in other to be effective.