April Y Oh1, Erin Hennessy, Kate E McSpadden, Frank M Perna. 1. National Cancer Institute, Division of Cancer Control and Population Science, Health Communication and Informatics Research Branch, Rockville, MD.
Abstract
PURPOSE: This study examines the relationship between state laws for physical education and neighborhood amenities for physical activity on weight status in adolescents of low socioeconomic status. METHODS: Data from 2 national data sources: Classification of Laws Associated with School Students (CLASS) and the National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH) were combined and analyzed. RESULTS: Multinomial regression models found that adolescents in states with strong PE law were associated with a lower odds of being obese [OR = 0.63 (0.41, 0.97)]; however, when PE law and neighborhood amenities were included, only neighborhood amenities were associated with lower odds of obesity, but also greater odds of overweight status. CONCLUSIONS: This study emphasizes the potential significance of state laws on low SES groups to combat obesity; as well as the potential differential effects of local level factors, and alignment with policy goals for healthy weight.
PURPOSE: This study examines the relationship between state laws for physical education and neighborhood amenities for physical activity on weight status in adolescents of low socioeconomic status. METHODS: Data from 2 national data sources: Classification of Laws Associated with School Students (CLASS) and the National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH) were combined and analyzed. RESULTS:Multinomial regression models found that adolescents in states with strong PE law were associated with a lower odds of being obese [OR = 0.63 (0.41, 0.97)]; however, when PE law and neighborhood amenities were included, only neighborhood amenities were associated with lower odds of obesity, but also greater odds of overweight status. CONCLUSIONS: This study emphasizes the potential significance of state laws on low SES groups to combat obesity; as well as the potential differential effects of local level factors, and alignment with policy goals for healthy weight.