The Physical Activity Policy Research Network (PAPRN) is a thematic research network of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s Prevention Research Center Program. The mission of PAPRN is to conduct transdisciplinary policy research that addresses the determinants, dissemination, implementation, and outcomes of physical activity–related policies. Examples of physical activity-related policies include community design policies that promote activity friendly environments; engineering standards that guide street design; worksite support for physical activity by reduced health club membership fees; and school district physical education policies.

There are currently three PAPRN work groups:

? Analysis of State Physical Activity Plans
? Coalitions and Networks for Active Living—CANAL Study
? Physical Education Policy Implementation

The Harvard Prevention Research Center (HPRC) leads the Physical Education Policy Implementation work group. The HPRC will work with state and local partners to document the adoption and implementation of evidence-based components of comprehensive physical education programs. The HPRC will assist partners and public health practitioners in identifying and prioritizing policies for research translation and implementation and work with PAPRN and the CDC to develop resources to educate local and state policymakers about effective physical activity policies and related research.

Funder: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

For more information, contact Angie Cradock.

More information, including project descriptions and a list of related publications, can be found on the PAPRN website, hosted by Washington University’s Prevention Research Center in St. Louis.