Dietary and lifestyle practices and beliefs of many African American males place them at increased risk for poor health outcomes with excessive personal and health care costs. The goal of this study was to gain a better understanding of contemporary African American male health behavior and dietary patterns in order to make more informed policy and program recommendations. The authors evaluated and used data from the United States Department of Agriculture Continuing Survey of Food Intakes by Individuals (USDA-CSFII) 1994-1996 to estimate the effect of diet on the risk of high blood pressure and 'any disease' (physician identified and patient reported). Results show that most men exceeded 100 percent of the dietary standard for fat (nutrients associated with poor health outcomes) and that less than 70 percent had recommended levels of carbohydrates or fiber (nutrients associated with good health outcomes). Based on these results, the following policies are recommended: 1) health education messages and graphics which demonstrate racial disparities between the African American and white populations in disease; 2) healthy diet and lifestyle practices for African American males should be developed and used in health care programs; and 3) primary health care providers of African American males should emphasize the relationship between diet, disease, physical activity, and smoking to their patients.
Learning Objectives: 1. Discuss the major findings of the study. 2. Provide feedback on policies recommended by the authors
Keywords: Dietary Assessment, Male Health
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.