|
|
|
|
|
Youjie Huang, MD, MPH, DrPH, Zhaohui Fan, MPH, and Marie A. Bailey, MA, MSW. Bureau of Epidemiology, Florida Department of Health, 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin #A-12, Tallahassee, FL 32399-1720, 850-245-4407, youjie_huang@doh.state.fl.us
Objectives: Hispanics constitute 17% of Florida population. Although we are in the midst of an obesity epidemic, few studies are available on overweight among Hispanics. This study assesses overweight and related factors among Hispanics in Florida.
Methods: Prevalence of overweight (BMI°İ25) and risk factors among Hispanics was analyzed by sex, age, education and geographical region using a large-scale Florida BRFSS in 2002.
Results: 2,164 Hispanic adults were surveyed, representing 2 million Hispanics. Fifty-six percent of Hispanics were overweight. Prevalence of overweight was higher among men (64%) than among women (49%). Middle-aged adults had the highest prevalence (65%) of overweight. No difference in prevalence was found by region or education. Among Hispanics, 75% adults were physically inactive. Physical inactivity among overweight Hispanics was highest among those in urban areas (76%) or with a high school education (80%). Healthy People 2010 recommends that adults consume at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day (5-A-Day). Among Hispanics, 78% did not consume fruits and vegetables 5-A-Day. Overweight Hispanics were less likely to meet this objective (81%) than were normal weight Hispanics (74%). Among overweight Hispanics, men (83%) and adults with low education (86%) were less likely to consume fruits and vegetables 5-A-Day than were their counterparts.
Conclusions: Overweight is a serious health problem for Hispanics in Florida. The data highlight differences in overweight prevalence among Hispanics. Physical inactivity and unhealthy diet are prevalent among Hispanics, particularly among overweight Hispanics. Prevention programs need to target Hispanic subpopulations with high prevalence of risk behaviors.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participants in this session will be able to
Keywords: Hispanic, Obesity
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.
Handout (.ppt format, 189.0 kb)