Cultural Influences on Physical Activity and Exercise Beliefs in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease

Background: This present study will utilise Stokol's Social Ecological Theory of Health Behaviour as the main theoretical framework. This multi-level Ecological theory suggests that an individual's behaviour results from a complex interaction between the individual, the environment, and community in which they live. Multi-level theories are thought to be more robust and explanatory, in comparison to single-level approaches as they are representative of the public health approach to population change. Ecological approaches such as Stokol's Social Ecological Theory form a robust base to evaluate complex multifactorial behaviours such as physical activity. This theory has been used, and is promoted for use, in designing community-level health programmes, such as physical activity interventions for different ethnic communities. David Howe, a sports anthropologist, will advise the research team with the interpretation of the data using this framework. Purpose: The purpose of this present study is to utilise a mixed-methods design to explore the understanding of physical activity and exercise, and factors that contribute to a decision to be physically active or sedentary, in patients with CKD from different ethnic backgrounds. The investigators intend to measure self-reported physical activity levels with the General Practice Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPPAQ) and self-efficacy for exercise (readiness to start doing exercise) with Bandura's self-efficacy for exercise scale. The investigators then aim to explore perceptions, attitudes and values about physical activity and exercise therapy in different ethnic groups. The investigators will ensure that views are captured from patients stratified by activity, readiness to be active, age and gender. To accomplish these goals, the present study will explore: (i) the understanding of the terms 'physical activity' and 'exercise'; (ii) the interpretation of the socio-cultural contexts in which they choose (or not) to be physically active, and; (iii) the participants understanding of physical activity and exercise opportunities and barriers in their local environment. All questionnaires will be translated for non-English speaking participants, and individual and focus group discussions will be facilitated with translators.