RESUMO
The objective of this study is to examine the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for weight loss among Mexican-American women. Cross-sectional survey of different CAM modalities, including traditional Mexican medicine therapies. The sample was drawn from women participating in a weight-loss program in Portland, Oregon. Sample consisted of 31 adult Mexican-American women. Most respondents reported using some form of CAM for weight loss, with most reporting using herbs and teas (70 %), home remedies (61 %) and massage (55 %). Mexican-American women report using a wide range of CAM therapies for weight loss. Understanding their patterns of use will enhance cultural competence of health care professionals and help address their medical needs.
Assuntos
Terapias Complementares/métodos , Americanos Mexicanos , Redução de Peso/etnologia , Adulto , Idoso , Estudos Transversais , Feminino , Humanos , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Oregon , Adulto JovemRESUMO
This study assessed the feasibility of a culturally-appropriate weight-loss intervention targeting obese Spanish-speaking Mexican women. This 12-month weight-loss program was based on behavioral interventions previously used successfully with English-speaking participants. Cultural adaptations included: female interventionists, minimal written materials, emphasis on group activities, focus on Mexican traditions and beliefs, and skill-building approach to food measurement. All sessions were conducted in Spanish. The study had few exclusionary criteria, which allowed participation of women with a wide range of literacy levels. Recruitment exceeded expectations, with 47 participants enrolling in the program. Not counting participants who became pregnant during the study, attendance at 6 and 12 months was 62 and 50 % respectively. Mean weight loss at 6 and 12 months was 5.3 and 7.2 kg, respectively, with a mean reduction in BMI of 4.0 and 5.5 kg/m(2) from baseline to 6 and 12 months, respectively. This pilot study shows that it is feasible to develop and implement culturally-appropriate behavioral lifestyle interventions for obesity treatment in Mexican-American women.
Assuntos
Cultura , Americanos Mexicanos , Obesidade/terapia , Programas de Redução de Peso/métodos , Adolescente , Adulto , Idoso , Dieta Redutora/etnologia , Dieta Redutora/métodos , Feminino , Humanos , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Atividade Motora , Obesidade/etnologia , Projetos Piloto , Redução de Peso , Adulto JovemRESUMO
There is an urgent need for effective and accessible culturally-sensitive weight-loss interventions for the Mexican-American population. It is imperative that cultural factors be taken into account when designing weight-loss interventions targeting this population. As a first step in this direction, this study examined the experiences, concerns, and beliefs regarding diet, weight and weight loss of Mexican-American immigrant women. Focus groups were conducted with Mexican-American women (n = 25) between the ages of 20 and 63, from the Portland, Oregon metropolitan area. Major themes identified in the discussions included important lifestyle changes brought about by immigration, the challenges of adopting "American ways," lack of nutritional information, and the difficulties in making food choices given the complexities of the family context. Behavioral interventions must provide culturally-centered behavioral strategies addressing some of the difficulties identified in this study. Specific suggestions are provided for the development of weight-loss interventions for this population.