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Prioritizing a research agenda on built environments and physical activity: a twin panel Delphi consensus process with researchers and knowledge users.

Authors :
Prince, Stephanie A.
Lang, Justin J.
de Groh, Margaret
Badland, Hannah
Barnett, Anthony
Littlejohns, Lori Baugh
Brandon, Nicholas C.
Butler, Gregory P.
Casu, Géna
Cerin, Ester
Colley, Rachel C.
de Lannoy, Louise
Demchenko, Iryna
Ellingwood, Holly N.
Evenson, Kelly R.
Faulkner, Guy
Fridman, Liraz
Friedenreich, Christine M.
Fuller, Daniel L.
Fuselli, Pamela
Source :
International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition & Physical Activity; 12/7/2023, Vol. 20 Issue 1, p1-16, 16p
Publication Year :
2023

Abstract

Background: The growth of urban dwelling populations globally has led to rapid increases of research and policy initiatives addressing associations between the built environment and physical activity (PA). Given this rapid proliferation, it is important to identify priority areas and research questions for moving the field forward. The objective of this study was to identify and compare research priorities on the built environment and PA among researchers and knowledge users (e.g., policy makers, practitioners). Methods: Between September 2022 and April 2023, a three-round, modified Delphi survey was conducted among two independent panels of international researchers (n = 38) and knowledge users (n = 23) to identify similarities and differences in perceived research priorities on the built environment and PA and generate twin 'top 10' lists of the most important research needs. Results: From a broad range of self-identified issues, both panels ranked in common the most pressing research priorities including stronger study designs such as natural experiments, research that examines inequalities and inequities, establishing the cost effectiveness of interventions, safety and injuries related to engagement in active transportation (AT), and considerations for climate change and climate adaptation. Additional priorities identified by researchers included: implementation science, research that incorporates Indigenous perspectives, land-use policies, built environments that support active aging, and participatory research. Additional priorities identified by knowledge users included: built environments and PA among people living with disabilities and a need for national data on trip chaining, multi-modal travel, and non-work or school-related AT. Conclusions: Five common research priorities between the two groups emerged, including (1) to better understand causality, (2) interactions with the natural environment, (3) economic evaluations, (4) social disparities, and (5) preventable AT-related injuries. The findings may help set directions for future research, interdisciplinary and intersectoral collaborations, and funding opportunities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
14795868
Volume :
20
Issue :
1
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition & Physical Activity
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
174064179
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12966-023-01533-y