Community Resource Utilization, Emotional Health, and Socio-demographic Characteristics Associated with Physical Activity and Dietary Patterns among Obese Latinos

Background: Latinos, especially those of low socioeconomic status (SES), are disproportionately represented among the 60 million Americans classified as obese. While intensive behavioral interventions have been effective for weight loss, few have been evaluated for low-SES Latinos. Evidence of behavioral predictors of obesigenic behavior in this population is needed to inform interventions. Methods: Using baseline data from Vivamos Activos, a weight management trial among obese Latino adults (n=207), we investigated demographic, psychosocial, and environmental factors associated with unhealthy diet and physical inactivity. We measured steps via seven day pedometer counts, dietary intake via the Block Food Frequency Questionnaire, and potential behavioral correlates via validated surveys. Data were analyzed in multivariable linear regression models. Results: All participants immigrated to the US as adults and 74% had not graduated high school. Their mean age was 47.5+11.1 years and body mass index was 35.6+5.3 kg/m2. Forty-one percent had low (<5 servings/day) fruit and vegetable intake and 37% had a sedentary lifestyle (<5,000 steps/day). Using community nutritional resources such as food banks was associated with 1.3 more daily fruit and vegetable servings (p=0.04) and female gender was associated with 0.6 fewer weekly fast food servings (p=0.04). Male gender and more depressive symptoms were associated with higher sweetened beverage intake (all p=0.01). Fewer steps per day were associated with female gender, more education, longer US residence, and not using community physical activity resources (all p<0.05). Conclusion: Obesity reduction strategies among low-SES Latinos should emphasize community resource utilization and take into consideration gender, education, and acculturation.