Obesity among Hispanics: The Relationship to Lifestyles, Socioeconomic Characteristics, and Education

Presenter Information

Stacey Harmer

Faculty Sponsor

Dr. Nuria Ibañez

Faculty Sponsor College

College of Arts and Sciences

Faculty Sponsor Department

Languages, Literatures & Cultures

Location

SOARS Virtual Conference

Presentation Website

https://unfsoars.domains.unf.edu/2021/posters/obesity-among-hispanics-the-relationship-to-lifestyles-socioeconomic-characteristics-and-education/

Keywords

SOARS (Conference) (2021 : University of North Florida) – Archives; SOARS (Conference) (2021 : University of North Florida) – Posters; University of North Florida -- Students -- Research – Posters; University of North Florida. Office of Undergraduate Research; University of North Florida. Graduate School; College students – Research -- Florida – Jacksonville – Posters; University of North Florida – Undergraduates -- Research – Posters; University of North Florida. Department of Languages; Literatures and Cultures -- Research – Posters; Honorable Mention Award Winner

Abstract

Honorable Mention Winner

In the Hispanic community, there are multiple factors that increase the probability of obesity. Among them are the diets and changes in diets over the past several decades, lifestyles and urbanization that have promoted sedentarism, status in society and stratification, education, and gender. Among the populations, women have higher risk of obesity in the Hispanic community. Education and socioeconomic status plays differing roles in the rates of obesity in developed and developing countries. Socioeconomic status affects the resources and support that are available. Urbanization increases the likelihood of adopting diets that are higher in fats and refined sugars, as well as adapting lifestyles that are more sedentary. Obesity is a major risk factor in the development of chronic diseases which can lead to premature death. Obesity is also a condition that increases the likelihood of transmission of COVID-19. It is imperative for us to understand the various factors that increase the likelihood of obesity in order to better treat it. The disparities between different groups and societal changes must be addressed to lower the rates of obesity in minorities.

Comments

Audio Presentation Transcript:

Hello everyone. My name is Stacey Harmer and this is my research on Obesity in the Hispanic community.

Across the globe, obesity is a health issue that is far more complicated than previously understood. The investigation into this topic demonstrates the various factors that lead to the probability of obesity. These factors include diets, urbanization and lifestyles, socioeconomic status, gender, and education.

Research measured obesity through Body Mass Index and Height-to-weight ratio. Factors predicting obesity were collected through national surveys that included data on populations, cartography, and socioeconomic status.

Diets have transformed over the last several decades. Processed foods are more popular and affordable. These foods are higher in calories, fats, and added sugars which contributes to obesity. Market trends have created higher demand for highly-processed foods. The affordability of these products has increased their profitability and demand.

Urbanization contributes to sedentary lifestyles. Current events demonstrate the ability to do minimal activity in order to get what you need on a daily basis. We are able to order almost any item and have it delivered to our homes. Cars and other vehicles have decreased the amount of physical activity we do each day. Hobbies and entertainment activities have changed. Technologies, such as televisions, game consoles, and cell phones, have transformed our lifestyles to a more sedentary means of living.

Socioeconomic status affects people differently, depending on whether they are living in a country that is developed vs. developing. In developed countries, lower socioeconomic status increases the likelihood of obesity in Hispanic populations. These communities have less access to the resources that they need to lead healthy lives. Processed foods are more affordable for them and are staples among these communities. In developing countries, higher socioeconomic status was associated with obesity. Lower socioeconomic status had higher risk of undernourishment.

Women have a much higher risk of obesity. Compared to Caucasian women, hispanic women are 20% more likely to be obese according to the Department of Health and Human Services in the US. Women are a fundamental part of the household. If a mother is overweight or obese, the likelihood of obesity increases for the rest of the family. Maternal health and education is an important factor in reducing obesity.

Education was a factor that improved women’s risk of obesity in Spain. Education is essential to transforming lifestyles and diets. Education increases the awareness of healthy lifestyles and the importance of traditional diets.

As seen from the research, it is imperative that we understand the different factors that increase the risk for obesity. Minorities, such as Hispanic communities, must have more access to the resources that are needed to lead healthy lives. Global markets must be held accountable for their role in contributing to obesity. Lifestyles and diets need to refocus on more traditional manners of living to promote healthier habits. Education is essential for understanding and improving the lives of those who struggle for access to resources.

Rights Statement

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