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Journal of Public Health

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Open Access 01-04-2010 | Original Article

Gender and ethnic disparities contributing to overweight in California adolescents

Authors: Mary Ellen Wilkosz, Jyu-Lin Chen, Christine Kennedy, Sally Rankin

Published in: Journal of Public Health | Issue 2/2010

Abstract

Purpose

To explore differences in health behaviors and factors contributing to overweight among 12 to 17 year olds in California.

Methods

Data from the 2005 California Health Interview Survey for 3,315 adolescents self-identified as Latino, Asian, or white were reviewed. Adolescents reported their weight, height, gender, ethnicity, parents’ educational level, household income, physical activity, sedentary activity, breakfast consumption, and family meals.

Results

Overall 34% of boys and 22% of girls in this study were overweight (>85th percentile for age and gender). Approximately 38% of Latinos, 25% of whites, and 16% of Asians were overweight. Latinos were more than twice as likely to be overweight as whites (2.07) and Asians (2.53). Younger adolescents (12–13 years old) and adolescents whose family income is less than 200% of the federal poverty level were more likely to be overweight. Low level of parental education is a risk factor for Latino and Asian girls and white and Latino boys. White girls with a lower socioeconomic status and white boys with more than 2 h daily of television, video, and computer time were more likely to be overweight.

Conclusion

Results suggest gender and ethnic variations in factors that contribute to overweight in California adolescents. To influence the current overweight epidemic, clinicians must develop culturally sensitive and gender-specific interventions that address the unique needs of an ethnically diverse adolescent population.

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Title: Gender and ethnic disparities contributing to overweight in California adolescents
Authors: Mary Ellen Wilkosz
Jyu-Lin Chen
Christine Kennedy
Sally Rankin
Publication date: 01-04-2010
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Journal of Public Health / Issue 2/2010
Print ISSN: 2198-1833
Electronic ISSN: 1613-2238
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10389-009-0300-7

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Gender and ethnic disparities contributing to overweight in California adolescents

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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