Author : Martha L. Morales
Publisher :
ISBN 13 :
Total Pages : 366 pages
Book Rating : 4.:/5 (98 download)
Book Synopsis Exploring Perceptions on Obesity Prevention Among Hispanics Along the United States-Mexico Border by : Martha L. Morales
Download or read book Exploring Perceptions on Obesity Prevention Among Hispanics Along the United States-Mexico Border written by Martha L. Morales and published by . This book was released on 2014 with total page 366 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: In the past 10 years, obesity rates have increased at an alarming rate among children ages 2-5. Hispanic populations are especially susceptible to obesity. Surveillance data complied by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) Pediatric Nutrition Surveillance System (PNSS) on children participating in federally funded health and nutrition programs revealed among low-income, preschool-age children, the obesity prevalence remained at 14.6% in 2008. The research indicates a multitude of social and physiological factors affect childhood obesity. Parenting factors influencing obesity in children include level of physical activity, healthy nutritional resources, involvement in social activities, and achievement in educational settings. These factors are influenced by the cultural practices, beliefs, and values passed on from one generation to the next. Few studies have involved understanding cultural practices affecting parents and caretakers as they strive to raise healthy Hispanic children. Studies conducted along the U.S/Mexico border are few to none. Through a qualitative descriptive study using Leininger's Culture Care Diversity and Theoretical Model, focus groups were conducted, using five interview questions to explore perceptions on obesity prevention. The sample included 37 adult Hispanics presently responsible for the care of healthy preschoolers. Demographic data provided a rich, in-depth pictorial of the participants. Themes and sub-themes emerged from the transcripts and were confirmed by the key informant. Patterns of similarities and differences were validated through transcriptions in both English and Spanish. The themes ultimately corresponded with Leininger's Sunrise Model dimensions. The themes abstracted from the data analysis were: 1. General agreement existed among caretakers about requirements for physical activity and balanced nutrition: however, methods used to meet those requirements differed. 2. Participants presented a variety of useful resources with information which assisted them raise their children in a healthy manner. 3. The contrast between urban and rural living environments provided challenges to these caretakers' attempts to raise healthy children. Implications for nurses providing culture care and its inclusion in nursing education were discussed.