Community-based physical activity interventions for the prevention of lifestyle diseases in low-income populations: a systematic review

Background: Lifestyle diseases like cardiovascular conditions, type 2 diabetes, and obesity disproportionately impact low-income populations, worsening global health disparities. Community-based physical activity (CBPA) interventions offer a promising public health approach to address these risks. Objective: This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of CBPA interventions in preventing lifestyle diseases among low-income populations, while identifying facilitators and barriers to implementation. Methods: Using PRISMA guidelines and a PECOS framework, a systematic search across seven databases (2010–2025) identified studies evaluating CBPA interventions in underserved populations. Eligible designs included RCTs, quasi-experimental, and non-randomized controlled trials. Results: Twenty-three studies met the inclusion criteria. Most reported increased physical activity, improved health behaviors, and reductions in BMI and HbA1C. The most effective interventions were theory-driven, culturally adapted, and multi-component—often delivered through group settings, schools, or community health workers. Facilitators included community engagement, stakeholder support, and integration into existing systems. Key barriers were limited infrastructure, socioeconomic constraints, and short follow-up durations. Only a few studies addressed cost-effectiveness. Conclusion: CBPA interventions can effectively reduce lifestyle disease risks in low-income populations, particularly when tailored to local contexts. However, further research is needed to enhance sustainability, evaluate economic impact, and promote equity in scaling these interventions.