Abstract

Purpose: Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islanders (NHOPIs) have the highest prevalence of overweight and obesity in the world. This study identified the proportion of our NHOPI sample in each body mass index (BMI) category and explored relationships between demographic characteristics and BMI. Design: This descriptive correlational study included 364 NHOPI caregiver adults in Utah (n=155) and Hawaii (n=209). We gathered demographic information with a questionnaire. Height and weight were measured for BMI calculations. Results: According to the CDC's BMI categories, 84.3% of our sample was overweight (BMI=25.0-29.9) or obese (BMI ≥30). Participants in Utah had significantly higher BMIs than participants in Hawaii. Educational attainment was inversely related with BMI; age, gender, and income were not significantly related with BMI. Implications for practice: Clinicians should screen all NHOPIs for obesity and related risks. Future research should focus on culturally sensitive interventions and education to reduce obesity and associated risks among NHOPIs.

Degree

MS

College and Department

Nursing; Nursing

Rights

http://lib.byu.edu/about/copyright/

Date Submitted

2012-07-09

Document Type

Thesis

Handle

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/etd5485

Keywords

NHOPI, Pacific Islander, Obesity, Body Mass Index, Demographics

Language

English

Included in

Nursing Commons

Share

COinS