Adherence, Adhesion, and Dropout Reasons of a Physical Activity Program in a High Social Vulnerability Context

BACKGROUND: One of the most important health determinants is social vulnerability, which can interfere in the practice of physical activity (PA). This study aimed at analyzing adherence to a PA program in a high social vulnerability context. METHODS: A longitudinal study with a 6-month intervention period was conducted. The program offered monitored walks associated with behavioral change educational campaigns. Sociodemographic characteristics, occupation, PA level, noncommunicable chronic diseases, participants' frequency of participation in the program, and intervention dropout reasons were evaluated. Descriptive and survival analyses were accomplished. CONCLUSIONS: Results showed that in a high social vulnerability context, adherence to PA programs is low, and adult-life-related commitments and high levels of obesity are factors associated with lower adherence.