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TITLE: IDENTIFYING COMMUNITY PERCEIVED CAUSES OF CHILDHOOD OBESITY IN BOYLE HEIGHTS [CA] AND ANALYSIS OF ITS PEDIATRIC HEALTH PROFILE.
Purpose of Study: Obesity in children is influenced by an array of factors including the community where the child lives. Boyle Heights is an urban community in Los Angeles, CA whose residents endure problems such as chronic diseases, poverty, and inadequate access to healthy foods. However, it is also an area with rich culture and strong community cohesion. The aims of the study are to (1) understand community perceived causes of childhood obesity in Boyle Heights and (2) identify assets and strategies to prevent its prevalence in this community.
Methods Used: Surveys consisting of 10 questions pertaining to childhood obesity and community strengths were distributed to 49 community members. One focus group was conducted. Five independent readers reviewed data and transcripts to determine recurring themes related to childhood obesity, identifying community strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT). The Boyle Heights Pediatric health profile was constructed using 2009 survey data from the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) and CHIS Building Healthy Community (BHC) survey. The CHIS BHC oversample was generated in Boyle Heights where 333 adult interviews were conducted with 172 children and 64 teens.
Summary of Results: Respondents expressed several important perceptions regarding childhood obesity. Major themes included lack of knowledge, fast food, and sedentary lifestyles as contributors to obesity. There was also a strong perception of community unity and strength. Compared to all of California, LA County, and Service Planning Area (SPA) 4, Boyle Heights experienced poorer pediatric outcomes in a number of variables and better outcomes in others. There is strong perception of community unity and vested interest in building a healthier community. Themes of increasing education, building awareness, and promoting access to healthy foods, were identified as ways to address obesity.
Conclusions: The Boyle Heights community attributed childhood obesity to many internal and external factors. Boyle Heights possess key strengths and opportunities that can be used to create an environment in supporting healthy behaviors. Findings will assist in implementing strategies to leverage community strengths and reduce childhood obesity.