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Abstract #153463

Anahi Viladrich, PhD¹, Nancy Bruning, MPH², Ming-Chin Yeh, PhD³, and Rachael Weiss¹. (1) Immigration and Health Initiative, Urban Public Health Program, The School of Health Sciences, The Schools of the Health Professions, Hunter College of the City University of New York, 425 E 25th street, W 10021, New York, NY 10010, (212) 481-5154, aviladri@hunter.cuny.edu, (2) Immigration and Health Initiative, Hunter College, School of Health Sciences, 425 East 25th Street, New York, NY 10010, (3) Nutrition and Food Science, Urban Public Health, School of Health Sciences, Hunter College, 425 E. 25th Street, New York, NY 10010

Goals

This presentation addresses the barriers to physical activity among non-physically active Latina women in New York City. Research questions examined Latinas' perceived obstacles regarding physical activity for weight control and health maintenance, according to their pre- and post-migration experiences.

Methods

Four focus groups of non-physically active Latina women were conducted. The study followed a multi-method data collection process that included individual questionnaires and group responses on body image, weight, and participants' perceived barriers and incentives to maintain a balanced diet and engage in regular physical activity.

Results

Latina women expressed their perceived obstacles to being physically active including access and financial barriers, and lack of physically active peer-support networks (buddy systems). Participants born abroad also mentioned the impact of post-migratory experiences in their negative life styles (e.g., working long hours, having no access to parks, and dealing with high levels of stress) along with the downside aspects of acculturation. The latter was exemplified in changes in dietary habits once they migrated to the US (e.g., eating more fried foods and less fruit), having sedentary habits (e.g., using mass transportation instead of walking, watching TV), and lack of physically active support networks.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify five barriers to physical activity experience by Latina immigrants.
• Describe the negative aspects of acculturation in promoting sedentary habits and unhealthy nutritional patterns.
• Propose health messages oriented to help Latinas overcome barriers to physical activity, including the importance of buddy systems.

Related Web page: www.immigrationandhealthinitiative.org/

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No