Digital Commons Network^™

Prevalence And Risk Factors Of Obesity Among Undergraduate Student Population In Ghana: An Evaluation Study Of Body Composition Indices, Christian Obirikorang, Evans A. Adu, Enoch O. Anto, Anthony A. A. Awuah, Angela N. B. Fynn, George Osei-Somuah, Patience N. Ansong, Alexander O. Boakye, Ivy Ofori-Boadu, Yaa Obirikorang, Austin G. Adobasom-Anane, Eric N. Y. Nyarko, Lois Balmer

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Obesity is a classified risk factor for several of the world’s leading causes of death. In this study, we combined information contained in body mass index (BMI), total percentage body fat (TPBF) and relative fat mass (RFM) to estimate obesity prevalence and examine the risk factors associated with obesity. Methods: The study recruited 1027 undergraduate students aged between 16 and 25 years using a cross-sectional study design and two-stage stratified random sampling between January and April 2019 from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana. Demographic, lifestyle, and family history of chronic disease data, were collected …

A Literature Review Of Societal Obesity And Its Impact On United States Military Recruitment, Megan Thibodeaux

Capstone

In recent decades, obesity rates have increased in the United States, raising significant health and societal concerns, especially in terms of military readiness. The ever-rising rates of weight-related health obstacles present a critical national security issue as it impacts the effectiveness of recruitment. This literature review aims to analyze how obesity impacts military recruitment and readiness to serve while utilizing the socio-ecological model to help determine gaps in evidence. Data was drawn from Embase, PubMed, and PsychInfo. Inclusion criteria consisted of academic journals and reports from government and non-profit organizations written in English. They focused only on the United States …

Mortality Of Patients Hospitalized By Covid-19 In Mexico, Systematic Review, Ana Portocarrerero Granados, Lya A Castro Rodriguez, Antonio Sandoval-Cabrera, María Del Socorro Romero Figueroa

Revista de la Facultad de Medicina Humana

Introduction: Since the start of the pandemic, Mexico was one of the countries with the highest mortality rates from COVID 19. Objective: To determine if type 2 diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, and obesity increase mortality in patients diagnosed with COVID-19 who required hospitalization in Mexico. Methods: Systematic review in Pubmed MeSH, Web of Science, Lilas, Scielo, and Google Scholar with the terms MeSH COVID-19, SARS-COV2, Coronavirus, and Mexico for the years 2020 and 2021, in English or Spanish. Two reviewers selected the studies, two additional reviewers participated in the analysis of the studies. Results: Seventy three studies carried out in …

Effect Of Bariatric Surgery On Quality Of Life In Obese Patients: A Global Systematic Review, Miguel Ángel López Espinoza, Nayaret Vega Albornoz, Ornela Navarro Mora

Revista de la Facultad de Medicina Humana

In a situation of obesity and when treatment goals are not met, bariatric surgery can be a promising alternative; with effects at the physical level as well as at the psychological level of the quality of life. This study aims to determine the effect of bariatric surgery on the quality of life in obese men and women between 20 and 60 years of age. A Systematic Review (SR) was carried out with meta-analysis of randomized systematic reviews, which compare the quality of life in patients after bariatric surgery. Electronic databases were consulted: Ebsco, Scopus, Pubmed and Cochrane Library. The response …

Factors Associated With Excess Body Weight In University Students In Times Of Covid-19, Cinthya Santa Cruz López, Sheyla Tenorio Villanueva, Dámaris Pérez Ramírez, José Cabrejo Paredes

Revista de la Facultad de Medicina Humana

Introduction: Excess body weight affects the quality of life of millions of young people around the world. Objective: To determine the factors associated with the prevalence of overweight and obesity in university students during COVID-19, from October to December 2020. Methods: Analytical, cross-sectional research with non-experimental design. There was a population of 325 students of the professional career of medical technology and a sample of 169 students of both sexes. Body mass index and waist circumference diameter were used to calculate overweight and obesity. The associated factors were determined by means of a survey validated by expert judgment. Results: 49.1% …

Maternal Eating Behavior Associated With Body Composition Of The Adolescent Son In The Population Of Allende-Mexico, Vanessa Cavazos-Flores, Jason Aragón-Castillo, Brenda López-Martínez

Revista de la Facultad de Medicina Humana

Introduction: Appetite traits (RA) are part of the eating behavior of the person, with a series of continuous responses that are related to the choice and consumption of food, but also to aspects at the moment in which the feeding is carried out, the frequency of meals, the place, the company with which they are shared, among others. These factors can have a significant impact on the way a person eats and on their long-term health. Objective: To analyze the possible connection between maternal eating behavior and the body composition of the adolescent, from a high school in the city …

Mediating Effect Of Bmi On The Association Of Economic Status And Coexistence Of Hypertension And Diabetes In Bangladesh: A Counterfactual Framework-Based Weighting Approach, Foyez , Md. Jamal Hossain Ahmmed, Md. Jamal Hossain, Md Tareq Ferdous Khan, Muhammad Mahabub Rahaman Manik, Saimon Shahriar, Dulal Chandra Nandi, Md Parvej Hussain

Mathematics and Statistics Faculty Publications

Background and Aims

Non-communicable diseases such as hypertension and diabetes are matters of huge concern worldwide, with an increasing trend in prevalence over the previous decade. First of all, this study aimed to evaluate the association between economic status (ES) and body mass index (BMI), ES and comorbidity of hypertension and diabetes, and BMI and comorbidity independently. Second, it explored the mediating role of BMI in the association between ES and comorbidity of hypertension and diabetes. Finally, it investigated whether the mediating effect differs with the place of residence, gender, and education levels.

Methods

A total of 11,291 complete cases …

Ways To Improve Uptake Of Tier 2 Weight Management Programmes In Bame Communities In Medway: A Qualitative Study, Jennifer A. Teke, Johnson Mbabazi, Emma Giles, Scott Elliot, Louisa Ells, Lawrence Achilles Nnyanzi

International Journal of Physical Activity and Health

Overweight and obesity is usually determined by Body Mass Index (BMI). Twelve BAME adults participated in the interviews: six were female, ten were first-generation migrants, three were retirees, none lived with a disability, and all were concerned about their excess weight. There were four themes from the data and eight subthemes obtained. To improve the uptake of the weight management service provided in Medway, the participants recommended the use of strategies such as indigenous food labelling, BAME-led clinics, the use of translated leaflets, the recruitment of local weight management champions, better coordination of services, appropriate communication strategies, and further research. …

Special Considerations For The Adolescent With Obesity: An Obesity Medicine Association (Oma) Clinical Practice Statement (Cps) 2024., Suzanne Cuda, Valerie O'Hara, Marisa Censani, Rushika Conroy, Brooke Sweeney, Jennifer Paisley, Cristina Fernandez Md, Meredith Dreyer, Allen Browne, Nancy T. Browne

Manuscripts, Articles, Book Chapters and Other Papers

BACKGROUND: This Obesity Medicine Association (OMA) Clinical Practice Statement (CPS) details special considerations for the management of the adolescent with obesity. The information in this CPS is based on scientific evidence, supported by medical literature, and derived from the clinical experiences of members of the OMA.

METHODS: The scientific information and clinical guidance in this CPS are based on scientific evidence, supported by the medical literature, and derived from the clinical perspectives of the authors.

RESULTS: This OMA Clinical Practice Statement addresses special considerations in the management and treatment of adolescents with overweight and obesity.

CONCLUSIONS: This OMA Clinical Practice …

The Psychosocial Beliefs, Experiences And Expectations Of Children Living With Obesity, Lisa Newson, Nicola Sides, Amineh Rashidi

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Childhood obesity has been shown to impair psychological health. However, psychological factors are often overlooked in both research evaluations and treatment interventions, and children's perspectives on managing obesity are underexplored. Neglecting psychosocial factors might undermine interventions. This research explored the psychological beliefs, expectations and experiences of children living with obesity (range 7–13) and attending a weight management programme (WMP). Methods: Thirty-four participants (19 females, 15 males, average age 9.5 years) completed a semistructured interview. Recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Four overarching themes were developed: (1) defining health and self-recognition; (2) external influence; feedback, …

Pastoral Leaders’ Perception Of Obesity And Their Role Within Faith-Based Organizations, Darren D. Moore, Clinton E. Cooper, Charles Williams

The Qualitative Report

The purpose of this study was to explore the perspectives of pastoral leaders regarding obesity and health within faith-based organizations (FBOs). In this study, the authors focused on gaining additional insight regarding how pastoral leaders conceptualize and make sense of their roles in terms of health promotion within FBOs. Utilizing a qualitative research methodological approach, specifically Qualitative Description, authors administered a qualitative survey to 12 participants which yielded three emerging themes: (1) perceived scope, (2) understanding and use of resources, and (3) defining obesity through pastoral leaders’ perspectives. In the study, investigators discuss clinical implications and provide recommendations.

Modulation Of Diet-Induced Gut Inflammation In Slowing Initiation Of Hematologic Malignancies, Esther Nyarkoa Mensah

Theses, Dissertations and Capstones

The intestinal tract serves as a host to an extremely complex microbial system. Microbes in the gut regulate their metabolism in response to chemicals generated by other microorganisms as well as nutrition supply from dietary intake. Alterations in gut bacteria have been implicated in the development of metabolic disorders such as obesity and the progression of diseases such as Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Although the cause of obesity is multifactorial, the consumption of high-fat or sugar-rich diets (Western diets) has been proposed as a significant contributor to this global epidemic. Obesity is a major public health concern that has been extensively …

Action Apac: Understanding Perceptions, Attitudes And Behaviours In Obesity And Its Management Across South And Southeast Asia, Kwang Wei Tham, Asma Ahmed, Apussanee Boonyavarakul, Mariana Mercado Garcia, Miroslava Guajardo, Zubaidah Nor Hanipah, Tran Quang Nam, Nemencio A. Nicodemus, Faruque Pathan, Jack Garcia Uranga Romano, Sidartawan Soegonda, Edgardo L. Tolentino, Ambika Gopalakrishnan (A G) Unnikrishnan, Brian J. Oldfield

Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health Publications

To identify perceptions and attitudes among people with obesity (PwO) and healthcare professionals (HCPs) toward obesity and its management in nine Asia-Pacific (APAC) countries, a cross-sectional online survey was conducted among adult PwO with self-reported body mass index of ≥25 kg/m2 (≥27 kg/m2, Singapore), and HCPs involved in direct patient care. In total, 10 429 PwO and 1901 HCPs completed the survey. Most PwO (68%) and HCPs (84%) agreed that obesity is a disease; however, a significant proportion of PwO (63%) and HCPs (41%) believed weight loss was the complete responsibility of PwO and only 43% of PwO discussed weight …

Distinct Reproductive Phenotypes Segregate With Differences In Body Weight In Adolescent Polycystic Ovary Syndrome., Angie Chen-Patterson, Angelina Bernier, Tania S. Burgert, Vanessa Davis, Tazeena Khan, David Geller, Emily Paprocki, Rachana Shah, Selma F. Witchel, Camila Pereira-Eshraghi, Aviva B. Sopher, Melanie G. Cree, Laura C. Torchen

Manuscripts, Articles, Book Chapters and Other Papers

INTRODUCTION: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogenous clinical syndrome defined by hyperandrogenism and irregular menses. In adult women with PCOS, discrete metabolic and reproductive subgroups have been identified. We hypothesize that distinct phenotypes can be distinguished between adolescent girls who are lean (LN-G) and girls with obesity (OB-G) at the time of PCOS diagnosis.

METHODS: Data were extracted from the CALICO multisite PCOS database. Clinical data collected at the time of diagnosis were available in 354 patients (81% with obesity) from 7 academic centers. Patients with body mass index (BMI) < 85th percentile for age and sex were characterized as lean (LN-G) and those with BMI percentile ≥ 95th percentile as obese (OB-G). We compared metabolic and reproductive phenotypes in LN-G and OB-G.

RESULTS: Reproductive phenotypes differed between the groups, with LN-G …

Obesity, Overweight Rates, And Related Factors Among Adults In The Rustic Realm Of Western India, Monika Patel, Jimmy Kagathara, Eshwar Kumar Gupta, Nancy Kagathara, Jitesh Mehta, Dipesh Parmar

Makara Journal of Health Research

Background: Obesity and overweight pose significant challenges in developing countries, underscoring the need for evidence-based prevention strategies. This study focuses on assessing the prevalence and associated factors of overweight and obesity in the rural areas of Jamnagar district, Gujarat, India.

Methods: Data collection encompassed six tehsils within Jamnagar district, with primary health center selection via simple random sampling. Individual selection employed the consecutive sampling approach. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS software. Regression analysis was employed to identify the independent factors linked to overweight and obesity.

Results: The analysis included 408 participants, revealing a higher obesity prevalence …

Strategies To Reduce Chronic Disease: Adding Role To Community Health Workers, Ingrid J. Renwanz Dnp, Pmhfnp-Bc/Aprn, Msn, Rnc

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Projects

Background: Underserved, rural, immigrant, low-income Latinx communities need to strengthen healthcare access to improve their quality of life (Capitman et al., 2009; McCartney et al., 2019; Save the Children [STC] Organization, 2021). Non-communicable chronic disease of physical and behavioral origin is the leading cause of morbidity for adults and children in Latinx communities (Campbell et al., 2020). Estimates of greater than 30% of the Latinx populations within the United States have these health needs, with projections to reach 28% of the U.S. population by 2060 (Eghaneyan & Murphy, 2019; Ortega et al., 2018).

Local Problem: If poor access to preventive …

Implementing Community Health Workers To Improve The Management Of Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases In Children, Julia L. Newell

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Projects

Background: Childhood obesity, asthma, and untreated mental health conditions are three examples of chronic non-communicable diseases (CNDs) that pose a host of negative consequences later in life. Minority children from low-income families, especially those with environmental disadvantages, face additional risk factors for the development of these diseases. Community health workers (CHWs) are in a unique position to help address these negative health externalities by being attuned with the linguistic, cultural, and socioemotional needs of members of their communities. Research has demonstrated success in CHW-led interventions curtailing the negative impacts associated with these diseases in low-income, minority communities.

Methods: A literature …

Chronic Stressors, Obesity Pathogenesis, And The Moderating Effect Of Internalized Weight Stigma; A Quantitative, Illinois Study, Karyn Byrne

Dissertations

The obesity epidemic is a ‘wicked’ problem with a complex web of determinants and outcomes. While generally higher for minoritized populations, prevalence rates manifest in surprising, nonlinear patterns. There is no consensus regarding treatment protocols or mitigation efforts, except that current efforts remain largely ineffective. Much research evidence that a profusion of determinants of health support obesity pathogenesis through various physiological processes and mechanisms, including the allostatic load, mitochondria functioning, the gut microbiome, and epigenetics. Intervening to support markers of the allostatic load (immunity, inflammation, and metabolic health) may provide a more effective treatment outcomes than traditional approaches, which tend …

The Prevalence And Impact Of Obesity On The Outcomes Of Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Mitral Valve Repair Using Mitraclip - A National Inpatient Sample Analysis 2016 To 2020., Garba Rimamskep Shamaki, Favour Markson, Osarenren Idemudia, Andrew Murphy, Tamunoinemi Bob-Manuel, Akanimo Antia, David Corteville

Advances in Clinical Medical Research and Healthcare Delivery

Background: Low Body Mass Index (BMI) is associated with poor outcomes in patients who undergo various cardiac interventions. Studies on patients with elevated BMI have produced mixed results. Our study aims to evaluate the impact of obesity on the in-hospital outcomes of patients undergoing transcatheter mitral valve repair using MitraClip in the United States.

Methods: The National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database (2016-2020) was analyzed to identify patients who underwent transcatheter mitral valve repair using MitraClip. Patients less than 18 years, with protein-energy malnutrition and rapid weight loss, were excluded. Our final study population was classified into Obese (BMI ≥ 30 …

Comparison Of Physical Activity Levels Among School-Age Adolescents In The Rural And Urban Areas Of District Swat Kpk, Pakistan- An Analytical Cross-Sectional Study, Imran Uddin

Theses & Dissertations

Background: Obesity and overweight represent significant global public health concerns. Young adolescents are in particular increasingly experiencing obesity and overweight due to their sedentary lifestyles, excessive electronic media use, and lack of physical activity (PA). This trend is linked to the development of non-communicable diseases in later life. Moreover, data regarding the lack of PA is available in Pakistan, but a gap exists in the comparative analysis of physical activity levels between rural and urban adolescents. Rural and urban areas exhibit distinctions in both geographical settings and technological advancements, potentially influencing the PA levels of their respective inhabitants.
Purpose: The …

The Effect Of Obesity On Comorbidities: A Benchmark Study, Kaley Nolen

MSN Capstone Projects

Obesity is distinguished by a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30. Tremmel et al. (2017) reports obese individuals are at a greater risk for developing cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. In 2014, approximately 641 million adults were classified as obese (Zhang et al., 2018). This epidemic has drastically worsened over the last two decades resulting in obesity ranking as the fifth most common cause of death globally (Safaei et al., 2021). Okunogbe et al. (2021) states, slowing the incidence rate of obesity by 5% will save approximately $3.3 billion annually between 2020-2060. The pathophysiology and cause of obesity is …

Sarcopenic Obesity, Pathogenesis, And Treatment With A Focus On Exercise And Protein Intake, Yasemin Karaağaç

Journal of Mind and Medical Sciences

Sarcopenic obesity involves the co-occurrence of sarcopenia and obesity, yields more health risks than either condition alone, thus requiring prevention and treatment for healthy aging. In this review, the literature on the diagnosis of sarcopenic obesity, the mechanisms of its pathogenesis and treatment with emphasis on exercise and dietary protein were revised. Changes in body composition and sex hormones with age, myocellular mechanisms, inflammation, oxidative stress, physical inactivity, and insufficient protein intake are the main factors associated with the pathogenesis of sarcopenic obesity. Treatment targets weight loss while preserving muscle mass and function. Promising approaches involve high-protein and low-calorie diets …

Community Health Worker Program: Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases In Children, Julia L. Newell

DNP Qualifying Manuscripts

Abstract

Background: Childhood obesity, asthma, and untreated mental health conditions, are three examples of chronic non-communicable diseases (CNDs) that pose a host of negative consequences later in life. Community health workers (CHWs) are in a unique position to address these negative health externalities by leveraging linguistic, cultural, and socioemotional connectedness within their communities.

Local Problem: Minority children in the Central Valley of California, face additional risk factors for the development of CNDs. CHWs working in this area require enhanced training on CNDs to improve their practice.

Methods: In partnership with Save the Children (STC), the University of San Francisco (USF) …

Quality Improvement Project To Assist In Implementation Of Prediabetes Screen Protocol, Kyai Forney

Doctoral Projects

Prediabetes is a reversible condition that causes blood glucose levels to be higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. When one has prediabetes, the cells in the body do not respond normally to insulin, and insulin acts like a key to letting blood sugar into cells to use energy. The pancreas produces insulin to try to get the cells to respond, but eventually, the pancreas has a challenging time keeping up, and the blood sugar level rises causing prediabetes (Lehrman, 2021). A person can have prediabetes for years with no obvious symptoms, so …

Maternal, Child, And Parenting Factors Associated With Obesity Among Pre-Kindergarten Children In Mississippi, Jerome R. Kolbo

Journal of Public Health in the Deep South

Background: Obesity among children and youth has been consistently assessed among public school students in Mississippi since 2005. Significant declines in the prevalence of obesity among elementary students over the past decade suggest that changes may be occurring prior to entry into public school. Purpose: The purpose was to collect anthropometric data on a weighted, representative sample of children ages 3 to 5 years in licensed childcare facilities across Mississippi, and to correlate maternal, child, and parenting characteristics to obesity. Methods: The Body Mass Index was calculated using measured height and weight data. Results: A total of 14.12% of the …

The Relationship Between Obesity And Depression Among Federally Qualified Health Center Patients, Hwanseok Choi

Journal of Public Health in the Deep South

Background: Obesity has reached epidemic levels in Mississippi. In the shadow of these skyrocketing obesity levels, there are comorbid high levels of depression. Both obesity and depression complicate and, in many cases, compromise critical health outcomes. A significant association between obesity and depression has been suspected for decades. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between obesity and depression among patients receiving medical care from a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in a southern state. Methods: The sample was comprised of 3,272 subjects. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) was used to measure the severity of depression, …

A Real-World Comparison Of Apixaban And Rivaroxaban In Obese And Morbidly Obese Patients With Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation, Kevin T. Burnham, Tianrui Yang, Jessica Wooster

Pharmacy Faculty Publications and Presentations

Background: Contemporary guidelines for managing nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) include apixaban and rivaroxaban as first-line anticoagulation treatment options. Minimal guidance is available regarding selecting anticoagulants for patients with class I-III obesity. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the comparative effectiveness and safety of apixaban and rivaroxaban in both obese and morbidly obese patients with NVAF. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted at an outpatient cardiovascular clinic after Institutional Review Board approval. Patients were eligible if they were ≥18 years of age, had a BMI ≥30 kg/m2, and took apixaban or rivaroxaban for NVAF for ≥3 months. The primary endpoint …

Analyzing The Effects Of Body Mass Index In Total Hip Arthroplasty Cases. Does It Influence Patient Characteristics, Operative Planning, And Postoperative Outcomes?, Cesar A. Sevilla Jr, Vanessa Elena Lopez, Mauricio Burbano, Michael Sander

MEDI 9331 Scholarly Activities Clinical Years

Background: Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is one of the most performed orthopaedic procedures commonly used for the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA). There are several underlying factors that lead to the formation of this condition. Not only is obesity one of the main contributors, but it is also a modifiable risk factor and one of the leading causes of end-stage arthrosis of the hip. Though there have been advancements in agricultural and health technologies, rates of obesity continue to rise causing similar increases in the demands for hip replacement surgeries. Therefore, we sought to investigate the effects of BMI on …

Association Of Maternal Pre-Pregnancy Overweight And Obesity With Childhood Anthropometric Factors And Perinatal And Postnatal Outcomes: A Cross-Sectional Study, Eleni Pavlidou, Dimitrios Papandreou, Zainab Taha, Maria Mantzorou, Stefanos Tyrovolas, Dimitrios N. Kiortsis, Evmorfia Psara, Sousana K. Papadopoulou, Marios Yfantis, Maria Spanoudaki, Georgios Antasouras, Maria Mentzelou, Constantinos Giaginis

All Works

Background: Pre-pregnancy overweight and obesity in reproductive-aged women becomes a growing tendency in middle- and high-income populations. This study aimed to evaluate whether maternal excess body mass index (BMI) before gestation is associated with children’s anthropometric characteristics, as well as perinatal and postnatal outcomes. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study performed on 5198 children aged 2–5 years old and their paired mothers, assigned from 9 different areas of Greece. Maternal and childhood anthropometric data, as well as perinatal and postnatal outcomes, were collected from medical history records or validated questionnaires. Results: Prevalences of 24.4% and 30.6% of overweight/obesity were recorded …

A Qualitative Study Of The Experiences Of Obesity, Body Image, And Mental Health Of British-Born Afro-Caribbean Male Students At A West Yorkshire University In England, Johnson Mbabazi, Dorothy Irene Nalweyiso, Fiona Macgregor, Jeff Breckon, Edward Kunonga, Barry Tolchard, Rosemary Dawson, Jennifer Teke, Josette Bettany Saltikov, George William Kagugube, Lawrence Achilles Nnyanzi

International Journal of Physical Activity and Health

Obesity, body image, and depression are all biopsychosocial phenomena that are frequently misunderstood across cultures. Body dissatisfaction is a psychological aspect of obesity that has been associated with disordered eating, low self-esteem, and depression. Nevertheless, body image dissatisfaction may affect non-obese individuals too. Those with a positive body image are more likely to participate in physical activity than those with a negative body image. Individuals who are satisfied with their body image are more likely to possess high self-esteem, confidence, and healthy eating habits. Obesity prevention among the black population is increasingly important. This study sought to examine the perceptions …