Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #104427

Glenda Lindsey, MS R D, LD, Public Health Program ; CAM Fellowship, Morgan State University, 1700E. Cold Spring Lane Jenkins 343, 900 Hillstead Drive, Baltimore, MD 21093, 443--885-3238, glendalinsey@msn.com

ABSTRACT Selected CAM Modalities in the Treatment of Obesity

Purpose of the Study. The prevalence of overweight and obesity in young adults has increased dramatically in the last decade in the USA. Unfortunately, although many weight loss programs are available to consumers, few are successful. The purpose of this study is to examine which selected CAM modalities are reported in the relationship to obesity outcomes. Rationale of the Study Obesity leads to serious diet related diseases that affect quality of life. Alternative methods to weight loss are becoming increasingly popular. This study will examine selected CAM modalities such as acupuncture, dietary supplementation ,spirituality and specialized diets. Study Design - The Add Health study will be used which is a school-based, longitudinal study of the health-related behaviors of adolescents and their outcomes in young adulthood. Nationally representative, longitudinally anthropometric data and CAM modalities was used. Analyses – The goal is to explore selected CAM modalities reported in relationship to obesity outcomes using a logistic regression analysis as a measure of the degree of association between two variables. The odds ratio is an estimate of the relative risk for an individual that uses selected CAM modalities for weight loss to an individual that does not use the selected CAM for weight loss. Implication to Public Health -Obesity results from complex interactions among biology, behavior, and the environment. Multidisciplinary approaches are needed to fully understand, prevent and treat it (NCCAM)

Learning Objectives:

• To examine reported selected CAM modalities for weight loss treatment of young adults.

Keywords: Alternative Medicine/Therapies, Obesity

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.

Recorded presentation