Annalyn Saludares, BA¹, Robert Kilpatrick, MPH², and Lara Hauslaib, BA¹. (1) School of Public Health, Yale University, 60 College Street, P.O. Box 208034, New Haven, CT 06520-8034, 832-276-5078, annalyn.saludares@yale.edu, (2) Hill Health Center, 400 Columbus Avenue, New Haven, CT 06519

Background: Obesity and obesity-related disorders/diseases present a significant public health burden in the United States. Prevalence of obesity is particularly high among African-Americans, Hispanics, and low socioeconomic status groups. In order to develop and administer appropriate interventions and policies for these populations, public health organizations must understand both current health behavior habits and receptiveness to change these behaviors.

Purpose: This study aims to understand the eating behavior, physical activity level, and perceived barriers to a healthy lifestyle in patients at a community health center in an ethnically diverse, low-income neighborhood of New Haven, Connecticut. The Stages of Change model will be used to assess readiness to adopt healthier eating habits and increase activity in the general patient population.

Methods: An English/Spanish questionnaire was developed to assess diet, physical activity, perceived barriers to exercise and healthy eating, body image, readiness to adopt healthier behaviors, and interest in various potential health center programs targeting these behaviors.

Expected Outcome: The project will aid in the development and implementation of obesity-related health promotion programs that are appropriate to the low-income, largely African-American and Hispanic population.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant will be able to

• identify barriers to overcoming obesity in individuals who live in areas of low socioeconomic status and
• identify health improvement programs that would be of interest to these individuals

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.