Is ideal body image related to obesity and lifestyle behaviours in African American adolescents?

ABSTRACT:

Background

Childhood obesity epidemic has become a public health issue in the USA, especially among African American youths. Research on the association between ideal body image (IBI) and obesity and related lifestyle factors among African American children and adolescents is limited.

Methods

Data collected from 402 low-income African American adolescents aged 10-14 years in four Chicago public schools were used. Questionnaires were used to assess IBI, weight perception, weight control practices, and self-efficacy towards food and physical activity. Body mass index was calculated using measured weight and height. Associations between IBI and weight perception, overweight/obesity and lifestyle behaviours were assessed using linear and logistic regression models.

Results

SUBMITTER: Chen X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3138864 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature