Physical Activity Promotion in the Brazilian Primary Health Care Using Community Health Workers Counseling

Physical Activity Promotion in the Brazilian Primary Health Care Using Community Health Workers Counseling

The aim of this study is to test a methodology of counseling on physical activity among Community Health Workers working within primary health care in Brazil.

This is an intervention study conducted with 176 people attended by two Primary Health Units in the city of São Paulo, Brazil. The intervention group received home visits of Community Health Workers trained on counseling on physical activity promotion. These workers received a course of 12 hours aimed to improve their knowledge and attitude about physical activity promotion. Evaluations will be done at the study baseline and 6 months after the beginning. The primary outcome is the population leisure-time and transport-related physical activity level.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18 years old or more
• To be registered in the Brazilian public health system

Exclusion Criteria:

• Health problem or disease that would make the individual incapable of practice physical activity
• Cognitive problem or disease that would not allow the individual from answering the questionnaire alone
• To have plans to move house over the six-months subsequent period
• Being pregnant