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Gender and race/ethnicity differences in occupational activity among students
Melissa Bopp1, Oliver W A Wilson1, Lucas D Elliott1
1Department of Kinesiology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA.
Occupational physical activity (OPA) is higher in employed college students, particularly males. OPA significantly contributes to overall physical activity, with notable differences across gender and race/ethnicity.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Exercise Science
- Sociology of Sport
Background:
- Occupational physical activity (OPA) is linked to positive health outcomes and meeting physical activity guidelines.
- Existing research indicates OPA varies by race/ethnicity and gender, but data on college students is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine occupational physical activity (OPA) levels and patterns among a diverse college student population.
- To investigate differences in OPA based on employment status, gender, and race/ethnicity within this demographic.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional online survey was administered to 3739 college students.
- Data collected included demographics, employment status, and occupational physical activity (OPA) levels.
- Statistical analyses were used to compare OPA across different demographic groups.
Main Results:
- Employed students reported higher total physical activity (PA) than non-employed students.
- Males reported significantly greater vigorous OPA, overall OPA, and total PA compared to females.
- OPA was a significant contributor to total PA among employed students, with racial/ethnic differences observed.
Conclusions:
- Occupational physical activity (OPA) plays a substantial role in the overall physical activity of employed college students.
- Significant gender and racial/ethnic disparities exist in OPA within this population.
- Further research is needed to understand the implications of OPA for college student health.
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