BACKGROUND: Promoting Healthy Lifestyles Among Women is a one-year community-based participatory research project examining the influence of social and cultural factors on weight gain and retention in low-income African American, Caucasian and Latino pregnant and postpartum women. In this presentation only information with reference to Latino women will be discussed and special attention will be given to the acculturation process and how it affects their eating habits and physical activity. A qualitative inquiry is being used to provide further insight into how acculturation affects dietary habits, physical activity, and body image in our target population, and to explore ways to address it when designing interventions. The project is affiliated with the Detroit Community-Academic Urban Research Center, a partnership of representatives from The University of Michigan, the Detroit Health Department, community-based organizations and health centers. This study has a Steering Committee (composed of academic, community and health service partners) that plays an integral role in all phases of the project. METHODS: A multimethod qualitative approach is being applied. This includes: 60 interviews with women and influential persons to assess factors that hinder/facilitate healthy eating behaviors, physical activity and weight/body image, and 6 focus groups with participants and providers as part of intervention planning. CONCLUSION: This presentation will focus on the role of acculturation and other socio-cultural factors in tailoring culturally appropriate interventions in underserved communities. The data collection phase of the project has started and the results will help partnership members develop interventions.
Learning Objectives: 1. Articulate the relationship between the process of acculturation and health-related issues. 2. List three factors that promote/hinder healthy eating and physical activity in the target population. 3. Recognize the value of community participation in designing culturally appropriate interventions.
Keywords: Latinas, Maternal Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.