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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Mikiyasu Hakoyama, MA, Family and Child Ecology, Michigan State University, 407 Human Ecology Bldg, East Lansing, MI 48824-1030, 517-353-3392, hakoyama@msu.edu

Obesity is a global epidemic. Interventions are urgently desired in many communities, as overweight and obese people are at a higher risk for illnesses such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. However, interventional efforts may not be effective unless the target population is identified and the contents of interventions are appropriate, which may vary due to multiple factors that are assumed to be related to the prevalence of obesity. Based on the health needs, preferences, and utilization survey conducted in four rural counties in central Michigan, weight-related community health was assessed. Over 3,500 surveys were returned and analyzed. Body Mass Index (BMI) was utilized to examine the weight conditions of the residents. The majority (60.0%) of the respondents were found to be overweight or obese (BMI of 25.0 or higher). Several demographic variables such as age, gender, education level, family income and county of residence were found to be associated with the BMIs of the residents. BMI was also found to be associated with health behavior such as exercise frequency and eating and drinking habits. Health information topic interest of the residents also revealed gaps between the overweight population and their attitudes toward improving their weight-related health. The findings in this study are believed to be very important in coping with a serious epidemic of obesity in the US. Replication of this study is recommended in planning effective community health interventions in similar settings.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participants (learners) in this session will be able to

• Identify demographic and behavioral characteristics associated with obesity.
• Articulate the processes for identifying target-specific health behaviors associated with obesity.
• Discuss recommendations to improve weight-related health conditions for each target group.

Keywords: Obesity, Community Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No