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

Abstract #118322

Marinelle Payton, MD, PhD, MS, MPH, School of Public Health, College of Public Service, Jackson State University, Jackson Medical Mall-Thad Cochran Center, Jackson, MS 39213, 601-918-1896, marinelle.payton@jsums.edu and Ryan Mack, BS, School of Public Health, College of Public Service, Jackson State University, Jackson Medical Mall-Thad Cochran Center, Jackson, MS 39213.

Although the prevalence of obesity continues to soar in the United States, its association with renal disease remains unclear. Studies have shown that certain risk factors such as coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, and type-2 diabetes are associated with obesity, and may play a role in the onset of renal disease. These risk factors are found in growing numbers in minority populations, especially African Americans. Data examining this association in African American are sparse and may contribute to greater understanding of the underlying socio-economic factors and healthcare policies for intervention and prevention. Therefore, the objective of this study is to examine the association between obesity and renal disease in an African American population utilizing a cohort of patients in a renal clinic in central Mississippi. The specific aim is to investigate the extent to which race is a determinant. Using the Statistical Analysis System, data will be analyzed and controlled for age, body mass index, income, height, weight, and other socioeconomic variables such as income and geographical location. As there might be a gradual loss of kidney function that worsens over time with prolonged obesity, we expect that those persons with a high body mass index of 40 or over is at a much greater risk of developing renal failure than those with a low body mass index. The results of the study will provide valuable information on the need for local and state collaborative cost-effective intervention and prevention programs.

Learning Objectives:

• Increase knowledge of the association between obesity and renal disease.
• Increase knowledge of the association between race, obesity and the risk of renal disease.
• Identify important strategies for improving cost-effective health programs and well being in minority populations.

Keywords: Vulnerable Populations, Health Care

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.