Mobilizing Community based Organizations to Address Obesity: Our Communities, Our Solutions

Authors

Mandy J. Hill, University of Texas Health Science Center at HoustonFollow
Kimberly Johnson, University of Texas Health Science CenterFollow
Judson Robinson, Houston Area Urban LeagueFollow
Amanda Edwards, Houston Area Urban LeagueFollow
Tiffany Thomas, Houston Area Urban LeagueFollow
Roger Mitchell, Houston Area Urban LeagueFollow
Niiobli Armah, Houston Area Urban LeagueFollow
Jasmine J. Opusunju, University of Texas Health Science CenterFollow
Misha N. Granado, University of Texas Health Science Center at HoustonFollow

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the focus groups is to: 1) explore existing thought patterns and lived experiences about eating habits and daily activity of African American (AA) children at risk for childhood obesity, 2) acquire an in-depth explanation of participants’ attitudes towards factors related to childhood obesity encompassing their social norms, dietary habits, and environmental influences, and 3) explore rationales for differences between children and parental perspectives of ideal health.

Method: Using a Community Based Participatory Research (CPBR) framework, the HAUL research team, comprised of public health professionals, local policy makers, physicians, and community leaders, will facilitate 20 focus groups (10 among children and 10 among their parents) with community members accessing HAUL services. Focus group results will be used to develop a larger population based survey to further investigate obesity related risk factors. Use of Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping will identify resources (parks, fitness centers, healthy food markets, health clinics, etc.) in the residential communities of the target population.

Results: At the time of submission, 6 focus groups have been completed (28 participants, 14 children, 14 adults). The primary themes identifying differences in responses of parents and children address proximity of access to healthy food choices, food type consumed by children regularly, and children’s preference for fast food versus home cooked meals. These themes will guide the development of the “UT-HAUL Healthy Houston Initiative”, a pilot program seeking to increase healthy decision making and access to wellness services among AAs.

Conclusions: “UT-HAUL Healthy Houston Initiative” is the initial course of action in addressing societal factors, renowned for breeding social injustice commonplace in AA populations. Our goal is to expand the Urban League movement's efficacy by identifying data that will combat social injustices while strengthening the core of the communities we serve.

Recommended Citation

Hill, Mandy J.; Johnson, Kimberly; Robinson, Judson; Edwards, Amanda; Thomas, Tiffany; Mitchell, Roger; Armah, Niiobli; Opusunju, Jasmine J.; and Granado, Misha N. (2010) "Mobilizing Community based Organizations to Address Obesity: Our Communities, Our Solutions," International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings: Vol. 6: Iss. 1, Article 20.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.wku.edu/ijesab/vol6/iss1/20