The Interventions of Diet and Physical Activity in Obese Peri- and Post-Menopausal African-American Women in the Community Health Setting

Abstract

Although various studies have investigated the effect of behavioral interventions on body weight, few have reported community interventions for peri-and post-menopausal women. Consequently, questions remain concerning the effectiveness of weight loss interventions for this group of women. The objective of this study was to provide an educational program to improve diet and physical activity levels to promote behavior changes that will improve overall health. A pilot study of obese peri-and post-menopausal African-American women was conducted to assess an educational intervention. Pre and post-tests questionnaires were given to assess eating habits and physical activity and to measure body mass index (BMI) as well as waist circumference. Each participant completed an eight-week behavior modification intervention program designed to increase physical activity levels and encourage healthy dietary choices. A paired-samples t-tests established that after the intervention there were large improvements in diet and exercise as well as small improvements in BMI and waist circumference. The educational intervention was associated with large improvements in diet and exercise and small improvements in BMI and waist circumference. A community setting is a viable option in promoting and improving health behaviors.