Culture, Acculturation, and Physical Activity among US Hispanic/Latino Adults

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to explore published literature on the relationship between acculturative experiences, cultural factors, cultural beliefs, and physical activity (PA) among Hispanic/Latino adults in the United States. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, We conducted a systematic review via the university library database utilizing the search terms "fitness OR physical activity, AND Hispanic OR Latino, AND acculturation OR cultural factors." Risk of bias was assessed using the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool. Results: The initial yield of 1192 articles was screened leading to a total of 102 full-text articles reviewed. A total of 32 articles met the established eligibility criterion and were included in this study. Studies varied in focus, participation, research methods, measures of PA, and acculturation as well as cultural and acculturative factors. We identified themes of acculturation, familismo, and gender as related to PA, in addition to differences in studied Hispanic/Latino subgroups. Conclusions: Most studies concluded that acculturation level increased, as did leisure-time PA behaviors. Several studies revealed higher levels of acculturation correlated with high levels of sedentariness. However, study outcomes were inconsistent suggesting a critical need for continued research. Scientific development of appropriate measurement tools for acculturation is critical.