Local physicians have expressed concern about the growing problem of obesity in Minneapolis/St. Paul among the Southeast Asian populations. To understand more about the problem, sixty-three children ages 8-12 years old were assessed for attitudes regarding dietary intake (24 hour recalls, and additional questions), activity patterns (assessed using the Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire), television usage, body image, and self-esteem. To assess for body image, the children were shown a series of silhouettes and asked which one they thought they looked like, and which one they wanted to look like. They were also asked to complete a series of questions pertaining to what they thought of themselves and their personality. Additionally, children were measured for height, weight, hip and waist circumference, and skinfold thickness. Results found no significant difference in BMI (Body Mass Index) between the Vietnamese, Laotian, and Cambodian children (group 1), however the BMI of Hmong children (group 2) was found to be significantly greater (p=.045). Despite having a lower BMI, Group 1 reported consuming significantly more calories and carbohydrates and participating in more activities, and watching less TV than group 2. Group 2 pictured themselves as being heavier than group 1, but want to be thinner than group 1 and thinner than average. Hmong children appear to be at greater risk for obesity than other SE Asian children are. Increased use of TV and decreased activity patterns may be contributing significantly to the problem of obesity among children in this community.
Learning Objectives: Participants of the session will: 1. be able to identify three differences in nutritional status indicators between the two groups of SE Asian children. 2. be able to discuss how Hmong children reported perceiving their body image
Keywords: Obesity,
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
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.