A Longitudinal Analysis of Physical Activity among Foreign-born Individuals

Abstract

The social and economic environment experienced after migration results in unique health behaviors among the foreign-born population. There is a dearth of literature with regard to this population's health practices and subsequent health outcomes. Using the behavioral model of health service utilization and drawing data from the panel study of income dynamics, this study constructs generalized estimating equations models to establish the determinants of physical activity among this population. The article concludes that health behaviors of the foreign-born differ from those of their U.S.-born peers. Data indicates distinctly unique factors that inform participation in moderate versus vigorous physical activities.

KEYWORDS:

• Physical activities
• foreign-born
• immigrant
• health
• PSID

Notes

Funding for this project was provided by a Fahs-Beck Fund for Research and Experimentation Doctoral Dissertation Grant.

1. These categories are calculated for an average individual weighing 154 pounds and aged 30 to 50 years (male) and 20 to 40 (female; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, n.d).