Progress in Physical Activity Surveillance, Research, Policy, and Gender Equity in Brazil: Results From the Global Observatory for Physical Activity.

Abstract

Background: Physical activity benefits both individuals and societies. This article evaluates progress in physical activity surveillance, research, policy, and authorship gender equity in Brazil (1950-2019).

Methods: We used data from a systematic review and the country cards produced by the Global Observatory for Physical Activity. Brazilian articles identified in the review were classified according to research theme and gender distribution in authorship. We also assessed the changes in physical activity policy and surveillance in Brazil.

Results: Of the 23,860 articles identified in the global review, 1200 (5.0%) were from Brazil. There was a sharp increase in publications from the 2000s, but a slight decline has been observed since 2015. Most studies were on physical activity surveillance (37%). The proportion of females as first authors was 51.2% in the last decade analyzed (2010-2019)-however, the proportion of female senior authors was below 40%. Brazil has a comprehensive surveillance system that includes all ages in periodic physical activity monitoring. Brazil has a physical activity policy embedded in noncommunicable diseases and health promotion policies, has recently launched guidelines for the population, and has a wide range of policies embedded in the national public health system.

Conclusion: Brazil is a leading middle-income country regarding physical activity research, policy, and surveillance. The results revealed some gender disparity in leadership roles in publications. The next challenge is translating this progress into increased physical activity levels among the Brazilian population.