The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #37098

Steven R. Hawks, EdD, CHES, Health Science, Brigham Young University, 229L Richards Building, Provo, UT 84602, (801)378-1706, steve_hawks@byu.edu

At the national level, obesity and obesity-related illnesses are increasing dramatically. As with many other public health problems, some racial and ethnic populations are disproportionately affected. This presentation provides information on the prevalence and consequences of obesity for different racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. Race and culture specific causes for obesity disparity among these populations are evaluated from both biological and social perspectives. After analyzing various interventions that are attempting to address the problem of obesity among diverse populations, a full-spectrum, three-pronged approach for reducing racial and ethnic disparities in obesity is presented and discussed. It is argued that a comprehensive population model, with a balance between downstream, midstream, and upstream interventions is necessary to produce long-term, sustainable reductions in obesity among disadvantaged populations. Such a model will only be effective if it is grounded in appropriate theory and developed using the input and guidance of affected populations. Examples of culturally appropriate interventions that address the behavioral, social, and environmental determinants of obesity at individual, community, and population levels will be presented. Using the tools of sound theory, appropriate methods, and cultural sensitivity, public health nutritionists and health educators are in a unique position to provide leadership to efforts that can help reduce racial and ethnic disparities in obesity.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe racial and ethnic differences in overweight and obesity in the U.S.
• Identify the most relevant causal factors that contribute to racial and ethnic differences in obesity and overweight in the U.S.
• Evaluate the relative success of previous public health education efforts to address obesity issues among diverse populations.
• Using participatory methods, develop a theory based model for preventing obesity in diverse populations.
• Articulate several strategies for implementing the model at the individual, community, and population level.

Keywords: Obesity, Minority Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.