Authors examined the associations between total walking and neighborhood factors in a multi-ethnic population-based sample in California and the roles race/ethnicity plays in these associations. This cross-sectional study obtained individual-level data from the 2003 California Health Interview Survey (CHIS). Participants' census tracts were linked to Census 2000 data to capture neighborhood SES.

The dependent variable was self-reported walking at recommended levels. Neighborhood SES was measured by a scale of 4 Census-based variables. Social cohesion was measured by a scale tapping the extent of perceived social connectedness, trust, and solidarity among neighbors. Neighborhood access to a park, playground, or open space was measured by a single item. Safety was measured by a scale of three items. Authors performed a series of multiple logit models with robust variance estimates while taking complex survey design into account. 

Findings: Neighborhood social cohesion and access to a park, playground, or open space were significant environmental correlates of walking at recommended levels, independent of individual sociodemographics. Subgroup analysis showed that neighborhood effects were different by race/ethnicity.

Neighborhood physical and social environmental factors are significantly associated with walking at recommended levels. Being aware of the ways that the environment could affect a patient’s compliance with PA recommendations may help physicians tailor recommendations to circumstances.