This assessed knowledge, attitudes and behaviors about nutrition and exercise among low-income Hispanic women older than 40 in Houston.
This study aimed to assess knowledge, attitudes and behaviors about nutrition and exercise among Latinas over age 40 in a low-income community in Houston, Texas, and the applicability of an evidence-based church program to promote healthy energy balance. Qualitative assessment was conducted in 10 focus groups with 75 women, recruited via three Catholic churches, and 15 personal interviews with community leaders serving this Latino community. Participants identified barriers and enabling factors to healthy nutrition and physical activity. Main barriers were related to lack of awareness, cultural beliefs, and socioeconomic and environmental factors. Preferred strategies involved group activities with direct guidance, interpersonal contact, social support with positive reinforcement for behavior change and/or maintenance, and a friendly environment for learning and achieving suitable goals.
Grant
U01 CA86117 2004-05Principle Investigators
Amelie G. Ramirez, DrPH IHPR, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San AntonioCollaborations
National Cancer Institute Diocese of the Galveston-Houston Area Catholic Churches in East End District: Immaculate Conception, Immaculate Heart of Mary, and Our Lady of Guadalupe ChurchLocation
Catholic Churches in the low-income Hispanic East End District of HoustonConclusions
Findings from this study suggest that using the church environment to reach Latina women age 40 or older is a feasible and culturally appropriate strategy to improve their health, exercise and nutrition practices. It will provide a safe, comfortable and familiar atmosphere for women, and will address specific cultural barriers and safety concerns of family members.