A Systematic Review of Barriers to Physical Activity Engagement among Ethnic Minority Women Worldwide

Oral

Abstract Overview

Background
Ethnic minority women, particularly those from Black and South Asian backgrounds, exhibit lower levels of physical activity (PA), despite having an increased risk of chronic lifestyle conditions. Therefore, it is essential to identify and explore the potential obstacles that could limit or reduce the integration of PA into their daily routines.
Purpose
To explore the obstacles hindering ethnic minority women’s engagement in PA.
Method
After a systematic search across various databases including PUBMED, 13 articles met inclusion criteria and were selected for analysis. These articles focused on adult women (n = 516; aged 20 – 79 years) from diverse ethnic minority backgrounds globally (Afro-Caribbean (n = 40) Pacific Islander (n= 48); African-American (n = 191); Iranian (n = 22); Saudi Arabian (n = 12); Hispanic ( n= 49); and South Asian (n = 54); and all (n = 100),) written in English, qualitative or mixed method primary research studies. The Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist was used to evaluate the methodological quality of the studies.
Results
Nine thematic barriers hindering women’s participation in PA, including “family dynamics”, “social groups” (peers), “safety concerns”, “self-perception or image”, “time constraints”, “cultural beliefs or expectations”, “financial constraints”, “lack of knowledge”, and “health issues”. Time constraints and cultural beliefs or expectations emerged as the most common hindrances, linking with other themes or barriers, and significantly influencing the women’s engagement in PA.
Conclusion
Women’s engagement in PA is influenced by familial dynamics and societal expectations, with various barriers hindering participation. Addressing these barriers requires comprehensive education and community support to empower women to prioritize their health and overcome obstacles to PA.
Practical Implication: Develop targeted strategies or interventions to promote PA and improve overall health outcomes in ethnic minority women to address health inequalities.
Funding
Conducted as part of an undergraduate project

Additional Authors

Name: Akriti Rathundi
Affiliation: University of the West of England
Presenting Author: no
Name: Karina Stewart
Affiliation: University of the West of England
Presenting Author: no

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Information

Study Type: Other
Subtheme: Inequalities
Population Group: Adults, Most inactive, Disadvantaged groups
Setting: Community, Family

Submitting Author

Faatihah Niyi-Odumosu
Associate Professor Physical Activity and Health Promotion
University of the West of England
United Kingdom

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