Abstract
Problem Identification Obesity rates are rising among adolescents. Markers observed in younger populations signal an even earlier onset of chronic disease due to obesity. However, Latino adolescents are at greater risk as they disproportionately face added socioecological barriers compared to other populations. Latino individuals make up nearly all youth in Monterey County disadvantaged regions. Using theory-informed public health strategies, this project aims to reduce obesity thereby improving quality of life by targeting socioecological factors among Latino adolescents in Monterey County, California.
Analysis Obesity disproportionately affects Latino adolescents due to greater disparities within their genetic makeup, socioeconomic status, and environment. Using the social-ecological model, the program coalition will uncover causal factors most feasible and effective for intervention. Targeted factors include sugar-sweetened beverage consumption, influences from enculturation and acculturation among families, level of peer support, and access and availability of healthier foods.
Intervention Proposal Effective obesity interventions require a multifaceted approach with health promotion and policy components targeting all levels of the social-ecological model. This pilot intervention for ninth grade selected participants will take place at Greenfield High School and comprise health and nutrition education workshops focusing on sugar-sweetened beverage consumption through behavior change and peer engagement methods. Other key elements include parent involvement, culturally responsive facilitation led by promotores, and changes to the school environment i.e., implementing an aguas frescas water station to encourage healthier beverage options.
Implementation and Evaluation Program leadership will form a health advocacy coalition with community organizations to champion new and existing policies that reduce obesity among Latino adolescents. Program planners will evaluate program success using pre- and post-test surveys to assess fidelity to implementation and whether program goals and objectives were met.