Acculturation and childhood obesity among immigrant nigerian children in northern California

Abstract Obesity has been identified as a chronic disease in immigrant minority populations, contributing to an increased risk of high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea,cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and other chronic diseases. Prior to this study, it was unknown whether immigrant Nigerian children and adolescents aged 9 to 14 years are at higher risk for obesity as a result of acculturation after migrating to the United States.The purpose of this study, guided by the social cognitive theory, was to assess the risk factors that lead to increased childhood obesity in this at-risk population. Data were collected from 163 participants through a cross-sectional quantitative design involving the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance Survey and Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System questionnaires, the body-mass index scale, and Stephenson's Multi-Group Acculturation Scale. Participants were recruited through flyers in a public setting.Descriptive statistics and multiple regression were used in the data analysis. The results indicated that multiple factors are responsible for high rates of obesity in this at-risk population, with results showing significant relationships between obesity and age (p =.002), employment (p = .005), duration of residence in the United States (p < .0005), and dominant society immersion (p=.001). Recommendations include developing community-based education programs and policies that support healthy lifestyles and conducting further research that increases the scope of study. This study has implications for positive social change in that it may increase awareness of the value of exercise and healthier eating patterns in the Nigerian community.