Active Transportation Surveillance - United States, 1999-2012

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Transportation Science
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Most U.S. adults do not meet physical activity guidelines.
• Active transportation (walking, bicycling) is a key behavior for physical activity.
• Comprehensive multiyear assessments of active transportation surveillance are lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess active transportation surveillance in the United States from 1999-2012.
• To analyze data from five major surveillance systems.
• To identify trends and patterns in active transportation.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from five surveillance systems: American Community Survey, National Household Travel Survey (NHTS), American Time Use Survey, National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, and National Health Interview Survey.
• Assessed different components of active transportation: commute mode, 1-day activity, and habitual behavior.
• Analyzed data spanning 1999-2012.

Main Results:

• Prevalence estimates varied significantly across systems, ranging from 2.6%–3.4% for commute to work, 10.5%–18.5% for any active transportation (1-day), and 23.9%–31.4% for habitual active transportation.
• No consistent temporal trends were identified across systems.
• Active transportation was more common among men, younger individuals, minority groups, and in urban areas. Prevalence also varied by education level.

Conclusions:

• Active transportation surveillance employs diverse methods, leading to discrepant prevalence estimates.
• Consistent demographic and geographic patterns were observed across surveillance systems.
• Understanding the strengths and limitations of each assessment method is crucial for accurate interpretation and effective public health and transportation planning.