Diet, Physical Activity and Weight-Related Behaviors, Changes and Risks with Newly-Arrived ( & lt; 1 Year) Immigrant and Refugee Adolescents (Ages 12 –17)

This study examined: (1) weight status, behaviors and perceptions, (2) diet patterns and changes, (3) sociodemographic and dietary factors associated with BMI. Cross sectional survey, anthropometric measures were conducted at a school for newcomer youth in North Carolina. Data analysis included descriptive, frequency, bivariate and linear regression. Participants (n  = 68, 55% female,< 1  year US) included immigrants and refugees ages 12–17. Thirty-one percent were overweight or obese. Forty-seven percent had attempted to lose weight. Positive weight perceptions were associated with normal BMI (p = 0.010). Fruit, milk, fruit juice, soda, and meat consumption increased post-ar rival (p = 0.037, p = 0.010, p = 0.003, p = 0.044, p = 0.014, respectively). Dietary change was positively associated with BMI (p = 0.002). Adverse diet and lifestyle changes occur rapidly, are associated with obesity, and weight control behaviors and concerns warrant early i ntervention.
Source: Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health - Category: International Medicine & Public Health Source Type: research