Understanding determinants of obesity among African American women

BACKGROUND: African American women have higher rates of obesity than any other demographic group in the United States. More studies are needed to identify factors related to obesity in African American women from various SES backgrounds, with special attention given to identify elements of the socio-cultural context as they relate to obesity. PURPOSE: The objectives of this study are: 1) to investigate attitudes and perceptions regarding obesity among African American women, and more specifically, 2) to conduct a qualitative investigation regarding the socio-cultural context as a determinant of obesity among middle- and upper-income African American women. METHODS: In-depth, semi-structured qualitative interviews (n=31) were conducted to assess attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors which influence obesity among this population. RESULTS: Participants were women aged 22-71 years of age, ranging from normal weight to obese (BMI=20.3-60.9). The majority of the sample had graduate level education. Having no time (65%), work/career (52%), and competing demands (48%) were the main barriers to exercise reported. The main barriers to healthy eating were having no time (45%), and the abundance of unhealthy options available (42%). Nearly half of the sample reported eating in response to stress, more than any other coping mechanism. Examples of quotes that illustrate these and other themes will be presented. CONCLUSION: Alternative intervention strategies need to be identified to promote physical activity and healthy eating among African American women, using tailored approaches to address the specific challenges identified, including lack of time, and the need to cope with high levels of stress.