Use of focus groups to plan obesity prevention for Latino children: Para los Niņos

Focus groups were conducted with 78 Latino children and adults to identify salient features for an intervention to reduce pediatric obesity risk. Eight groups consisting of 70 Latino mothers and their children were held at neighborhood churches, mobile parks, libraries, and schools. A ninth group was conducted with respected leaders (n=8) of the Latino community and included medical providers, clergy, business owners, and activists. Interviews were conducted in Spanish, tape-recorded, and led by Latino professionals. Focus group concepts included the following: children's favorite foods; snack foods; influences on children's food choices; favorite leisure activities; changes in eating patterns and physical activity since immigrating to the United States; influences on physical activity patterns; desirable format for intervention; and barriers/incentives for participation. Consistent themes described by participants were frequent consumption of fast foods and sodas; large portions; excessive snacking; increased availability of food since arriving in the United States; significant media influence; and indulgent parental behavior. Increased sedentary lifestyles were attributed to unsafe residential neighborhoods and increased leisure time spent watching television and playing video games. Attributes of an ideal intervention included parent involvement (acknowledged by all); team sports (i.e., soccer); and the need to provide transportation to a convenient, safe location. Important cultural values to incorporate were interdependence, personal relationships, love of family, and sense of community. Focus group findings drove the planning of a culturally-based intervention for obesity reduction that incorporated Latino values, social support, and cultural concerns.