Background: 

Although a number of countries have assessed physical activity as part of their national health surveys, they have used a variety of definitions, questionnaires and other methodologies. A greater degree of standardization in definitions and assessment is required. The European Community (EC) has a clear competence and mandate, and therefore a special responsibility in this area.

Methods: 

A set of programmes has defined in detail the objectives and the actions to be taken in health monitoring, and a series of developmental projects with emphasis on physical activity have been supported by the EU, such as the EURODIET project, the EUPASS (Eur Physical Activity Surveillance System), and the Monitoring Public Health Nutrition project.

An initial set of European Community Health Indicators (ECHI) has been produced and widely disseminated (long and short lists), in close cooperation with the above mentioned projects. Under the current EU public health programme, the work on health indicators and data collection is being further developed. The ALPHA project (Assessment of Physical Activity at Population Levels) aims to standardize definitions and assessment methodologies, and to improve current instruments. It includes physical activity related to transportation, the influence of environment and fitness levels.

Conclusion: 

It will soon be possible to (1) measure how active populations are, and to follow trends and define determinants of physical activity and fitness throughout the Community; (2) facilitate the planning, monitoring and evaluation of Community programmes and actions; and, (3) provide Member States with appropriate health information to make comparisons and to support their national health policies.