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The ‘Ohana Mana Challenge: An Intervention Study On Native Hawaiian And Pacific Islander Nutrition And Activity, Jane H. Lassetter

Journal of Undergraduate Research

In our recent study, 84.4% of Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders (NHPIs) in Hawaii and Utah were overweight or obese, which puts them at increased risk for obesity-related diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and some cancers. Pre-colonization NHPI diets were rich in fresh fruits and vegetables and fish, but research indicates current NHPI diets consist largely of processed and fast foods. Along with this change in NHPI diet came a change in activity, from fishing and farming to more sedentary jobs. The changes in diet and activity likely contribute to high NHPI overweight and obesity prevalence. People can make wise …