Problem Statement: Obesity is argumentatively the nations primary health problem. The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Study (BRFSS) is thought to underestimate the prevalence of obesity in rural and economically burdened counties. In addition, little is know about local residents' attitudes towards obesity.
Hypothesis: This obesity study will show a significant difference in self-reported BRFSS data versus local data collected by health care professionals. The perception about the prevalence of obesity was overestimated when compared to BRFSS data.
Method: The Surry County Health and Nutrition Center collected 211 opinion based survey questions about the perceived perceptions of obesity in this rural, agricultural area. We also collected actual height/weight data on 1,000 residents to determine BMI assessments and results.
Results: Results from the survey administered to Wal-Mart customers showed that: 1) 94% felt that being overweight was a HEALTH problem. 2) 86% would seek help if they were obese. 3) 67% would seek help from a physician. 4) Finally, residents were unclear on the extent of obesity in Surry County as the range of obesity was cited from 10% to 90% with 50% the most cited interruption. Quantitative BMI assessment data not presently available.
Conclusion: Survey results showed that residents are aware that obesity is a health problem and that they would seek help if they thought themselves obese. They are unaware of the extent of the problem. This study supports the need for local public health in rural areas to communicate the extent of health problems facing local residents.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to show a significant difference in BRFSS data versus rural local researched data. At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to assess local residents' perceptions toward obesity
Keywords: Assessments,
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: The Surry County Health and Nutrition Center
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.