Recorded presentation

Mary E. O'Neil, MPH¹, Loretta DiPietro, PhD, MPH², and Melinda L. Irwin, PhD, MPH¹. (1) Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Yale School of Medicine, 60 College Street, New Haven, CT 06510, 203-645-3558, mary.oneil@yale.edu, (2) Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Yale University School of Medicine, 60 College Street, P.O. Box 208034, New Haven, CT 06511

BACKGROUND: Sixty percent of Americans report levels of daily physical activity that are insufficient for maintaining a healthy body weight. The increasing prevalence of inactivity can be countered through active living activities, such as walking and bicycling, which are accessible to the majority of the population regardless of age, gender, and socio-economic status. Research shows that the built environment, which includes the urban design, land use, and transportation systems, can facilitate or inhibit physical activity levels. PURPOSE: This study will determine the cross-sectional association between features of the built environment and the number of walkers and bicyclists on a major commuter road. METHODS: Data on the built environment were gathered via an environmental audit of several areas along the 1.7 mile commuter road. Each area encompassed a radius of 1/4 mile. The audit tool utilized was the Systematic Pedestrian and Cycling Environmental Scan (SPACES). Real-time counts of the number of pedestrians and bicyclists were determined through recordings by closed circuit pan-tilt-zoom traffic cameras operated by the city’s Department of Public Works. RESULTS: Results from the correlational analysis will be reported as well as information regarding feasibility of conducting this type of assessment.

Learning Objectives: After viewing this poster, the participant will be able to

• Identify characteristics of the built environment;
• Describe the magnitude of association between factors of the built environment and pedestrian and bicycling activity;
• Evaluate methodologies used to assess physical activity and the built environment.

Keywords: Physical Activity, Environmental Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Recorded presentation