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Sonal Doshi, MS, MPH and Ruth Jiles, PhD. Behavioral Surveillance Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Highway NE, MS E-65, Atlanta, GA 30341, 770-234-6532, sdoshi@cdc.gov
BACKGROUND: Minority populations in the US generally experience a disproportionate share of adverse health outcomes compared to whites. American Indians/Alaska Natives (AI/AN) as a group experience excess morbidity and mortality compared to the US general population. The US as a nation has developed Healthy People 2010 Goals to eliminate health disparities among different populations. OBJECTIVE: To describe the disparities in health risk behaviors between AI/AN women and all US women and to compare the prevalence of select health risk behaviors among AI/AN women and HP2010 Goals. METHODS: BFRSS data from 1998 – 2000 were combined and age-adjusted prevalence rates for binge drinking, current smoking, obesity, and lack of leisure time physical activity were calculated for a number of socio-demographic characteristics. Prevalence estimates for risk behaviors were compared for AI/AN women, all U.S. women, and the Healthy People 2010 goals. RESULTS: The prevalence of binge drinking, current smoking, and obesity was significantly higher among AI/AN women than all US women. The prevalences of these risk behaviors varied by socio-demographic characteristics. AI/AN women did not meet Healthy People 2010 goals for current smoking, obesity, and leisure time physical activity. CONCLUSION: These data highlight the health risk behaviors for a population of AI/AN women that live in urban areas and not the traditional IHS service areas. The disparities in prevalence rates described highlight the importance of culturally appropriate and accessible prevention programs to address health behaviors associated with the leading causes of death among AI/AN women and especially the newly urbanized AI/AN population.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to
Keywords: American Indians, Women's 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.