A recently published study in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health presents the results of Chile’s first Para Report Card on Physical Activity (PA) for Children and Adolescents with Disabilities (CAWD). The findings reveal significant challenges in promoting physical activity within this population, with most indicators receiving low grades.
The report card, developed as part of the Global Matrix initiative, assessed 10 core PA indicators using data from 2018 to January 2022. The indicators were graded on a letter scale (A–F) based on internationally established benchmarks. The results are as follows:
- Overall Physical Activity: D−
- Organized Sports and Physical Activity Participation: C−
- Active Play: Incomplete
- Active Transportation: D−
- Sedentary Behavior: F
- Physical Fitness: Incomplete
- Family and Peers: D+
- School: C+
- Community and Environment: D+
- Government: B−
The findings indicate that despite policy efforts in recent years, significant gaps remain in providing adequate opportunities for CAWD to engage in physical activity. Particularly concerning are the failing grades in sedentary behavior and overall physical activity, which highlight the need for urgent interventions.
A comprehensive and coordinated approach is necessary to improve physical activity levels and address the associated health risks for children and adolescents with disabilities in Chile.
For more information, the full study is available at https://journals.humankinetics.com/view/journals/jpah/aop/article-10.1123-jpah.2024-0073/article-10.1123-jpah.2024-0073.xml?content=abstract
