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Knowledge and perception of the prevalence of obesity: Racial differences and similarities
Author(s) -
Dawkins Norma L,
Findlay Henry J,
Pace Ralphenia Diggs
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.21.5.a674-b
Subject(s) - obesity , overweight , ethnic group , medicine , perception , race (biology) , gerontology , health professionals , disease , health care , environmental health , psychology , neuroscience , sociology , botany , pathology , anthropology , economics , biology , economic growth
The prevalence of overweight and obesity has increased for both genders and has crossed all ethnic and age groups. A survey instrument to access knowledge and perception on the prevalence of obesity and chronic diseases was developed and validated, to examine racial differences and similarities in 126 community participants. The instrument was distributed to a purposeful sample of selected professionals (healthcare professionals, scientists, clergy, school administrators, grocery store managers, grassroots community leaders). Results indicated that over 90% of the respondents had good knowledge regarding obesity. They (91%) were aware of the increased prevalence of obesity and ~ 59 % indicated that the problem was greater in children than in adults. Sixty (60) percent desired to learn more, however ~21% of respondents indicated that they were knowledgeable but were not concerned. The prevalence of obesity was directly associated with high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Educating parents, providing healthier school lunches and increasing physical activity were suggested strategies for combating obesity in children P≤0.05. Race and income significantly P<0.05 affected the need to learn more regarding obesity. Race had no effect on their knowledge and perception; therefore, the core problem could be addressed using similar approaches.