Cultural Perspectives of Childhood Obesity in Haitian and Hispanic Children

The prevalence of overweight children has risen at an alarming rate over the past 30 years. Haitians and Hispanics are 2 at-risk populations that are disproportionately affected by childhood obesity. The increasing prevalence in these populations suggests each culture may have unique contributing factors to the chronic condition. This study examined the cultural beliefs and attitudes Hispanic and Haitian parents regarding childhood obesity. Results show that there are unique contributing factors to childhood obesity in these cultures that are relevant to the primary care of these individuals and families.