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

Abstract #113498

Thandi Puoane, Dr PH¹, Princess Matwa, RN, MPH², Hazel Bradley, BPharm, MPH¹, and Gail D. Hughes, DrPH, MPH³. (1) School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Private Bag X 17, Bellville, Cape Town, 7535, South Africa, 27 219593084, tpuoane@uwc.ac.za, (2) University of the Western Cape, School of Public Health, Private Bag X17, Bellville, 7535, South Africa, (3) Department of Preventive Medicine-Epidemiology, University of Mississippi Medical Centre, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39216-4505

Objectives: To examine socio-cultural factors that influence food intake in groups of people residing in a black township in Cape Town, South Africa. Method: Focus group discussions and in-depth interviews explored socio-cultural factors in men and women of different age groups. Discussions and interviews were recorded, transcribed and analysed according to emerging themes. Findings: Food was perceived as a sign of warmth, acceptance and friendship. It was used for celebrations, rituals, for welcoming guests and during social occasions when people get together. Sweets, ice cream and cakes were consumed on happy occasions, whilst lean meat and black tea was associated with periods of mourning. . Daily consumption of meat was associated with a high socioeconomic status, while consumption of vegetables only was related to a low socioeconomic status. Eating large portions of food was linked with affordability and fatty meat was seen as a sign of generosity. Eating behaviors were learned during socialization, and carried over from generation to generation. There are socially accepted norms and values surrounding people's understanding of food. This information needs to be used in a more constructive way to help people choose food wisely to prevent over nutrition and associated risks. Conclusion: Although food-based guidelines are fundamental in educating people about healthy eating, their integration into daily eating patterns requires considerable engagement with community members in order to incorporate the socio-cultural and environmental factors that influence food intake.

Learning Objectives:

• To describe socio-cultural factors that influence food intake in groups of people residing in a black township in Cape Town, South Africa.

Keywords: Food and Nutrition, Disease Prevention

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.