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Hurston JS, Worthy CC, Huefner EA, Sayed MS, Dubose CW, Mabundo LS, Horlyck-Romanovsky MF, Younger-Coleman N, Sumner AE. An Overview of Body Size Preference, Perception and Dissatisfaction in Sub-Saharan Africans Living in the United States. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes 2024; 17:3279-3293. [PMID: 39247431 PMCID: PMC11380482 DOI: 10.2147/dmso.s474956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Body image affects health practices. With acculturation superimposed on globalization, 21st century body size preferences of African immigrants, one of the fasting growing populations in the United States, are unknown. Therefore, in African immigrants living in America we assessed: 1) body size preference; and 2) body size dissatisfaction. Methods Participants chose two silhouettes from the Stunkard Figure Rating Scale: one for body size preference and one for perceived body size. Each silhouette corresponds to a BMI category: (a) Underweight: 1 and 2; (b) Normal weight: 3 and 4; (c) Overweight: 5, 6 and 7; (d) Obesity: 8 and 9. Dissatisfaction was defined as the difference between silhouette numbers for perceived and preferred body size. Results Characteristics of the 412 participants were: women: 42% (174/412), age 40±11y (mean±SD), range 20-69 y, BMI 27.9±4.6, range 19.5-47.3 kg/m2. As a body size of preference, no one (0/412) chose obese silhouettes. Normal weight silhouettes were chosen as their body size of preference by 75% (131/174) of women and 60% (143/238) of men. Overweight silhouettes were chosen as their preferred body size by 11% (19/174) of women and 26% (62/238) of men. Combining normal and overweight silhouettes into one group, 86% (150/174) of women and 86% (205/238) of men preferred to be either normal or overweight. Underweight silhouettes were preferred by 14% (24/174) of women and 14% (33/238) of men. Dissatisfaction because body size was too large occurred in 78% (135/174) of women and 53% (126/238) of men. Dissatisfaction because body size was too small occurred in 6% (11/174) of women and 16% (38/238) of men. Conclusion African immigrants prefer body sizes which are normal or overweight. However, and presumably attributable to the combined influence of globalization and acculturation, a worrisome fraction of African immigrants favor an underweight silhouette.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamaiica S Hurston
- Diabetes, Endocrinology and Diabetes Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Charlita C Worthy
- Diabetes, Endocrinology and Diabetes Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Eliza A Huefner
- Diabetes, Endocrinology and Diabetes Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mariam S Sayed
- Diabetes, Endocrinology and Diabetes Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Christopher W Dubose
- Diabetes, Endocrinology and Diabetes Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Lilian S Mabundo
- Diabetes, Endocrinology and Diabetes Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Margrethe F Horlyck-Romanovsky
- Diabetes, Endocrinology and Diabetes Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Department of Health and Nutrition Sciences, Brooklyn College, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Novie Younger-Coleman
- Caribbean Institute for Health Research, The University of the West Indies, Mona, Kingston, Jamaica
| | - Anne E Sumner
- Diabetes, Endocrinology and Diabetes Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Hypertension in Africa Research Team, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
- National Institute of Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Mahama S, Weichold K, Fehmer N, Mvungu EN, Natsuaki MN. Pubertal status and body image: An inquiry into experiences of adolescents in Ghana and Kenya. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE 2024; 34:257-271. [PMID: 38659355 DOI: 10.1111/jora.12953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
The current study uses a mixed method design to investigate Kenyan and Ghanaian adolescents' experiences of puberty, and the relations between gender, country of origin, pubertal status, and body image appraisals (N = 86; Ghana = 46, Kenya = 40, 52.9% female aged 13 and 14). Qualitative results revealed seven major themes; puberty means a universal period of growth and transition into adulthood but also evokes negative emotions of shame, anxiety, and embarrassment, being in sync with peers during puberty is important and knowing that others in their lives similarly experience puberty is reassuring. Quantitative results revealed significant gender and country differences in pubertal status and body image. Ghanaian adolescents had more advanced pubertal status and more positive body image appraisals compared to Kenyan adolescents. Moderation analysis results revealed that for the Kenyan sample, post-pubertal males had less favorable body image appraisals than their counterparts who were still pre pubertal whilst for females, post-pubertal girls had more favorable body images than their counterparts. No such effects were observed with the Ghanaian sample. The findings highlight the need for context considerations in understanding body image during the pubertal transition to help identify relevant protective factors for possible interventions. The results affirm the importance of positive body image promotions for adolescents within the African context and suggest the need for much more comprehensive sex education with gender-specific components to help allay fears about puberty, thus preventing the development of possible adaptation problems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nora Fehmer
- Friedrich Schiller University of Jena, Jena, Germany
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3
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Manyara AM, Mwaniki E, Gill JMR, Gray CM. Knowledge, perceptions and practices towards diabetes risk in sub-Saharan Africa: a mixed-methods scoping review. Public Health Nutr 2024; 27:e104. [PMID: 38533768 PMCID: PMC11010065 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980024000752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To synthesise current evidence on knowledge, perceptions and practices towards type 2 diabetes risk in sub-Saharan Africa. DESIGN Mixed-methods scoping review, which included 101 studies (seventy-three quantitative, twenty qualitative and eight mixed methods) from seven electronic databases. SETTING Sub-Saharan Africa, 2000-2023. PARTICIPANTS Men and women without diabetes with mean ages ranging from 20 to 63 years. RESULTS The majority of participants in most studies knew the three main diabetes modifiable risk factors - excess weight, unhealthy diet and physical inactivity. However, most people with excess weight in almost all studies underestimated their weight. Further, the self-described ideal body weight was between midpoint of normal weight and the upper limits of overweight in most quantitative studies and was described as not too skinny but not too fat in qualitative studies. In the majority of studies, participants reported low engagement in weight control, high regular sugar intake, and low regular fruit and vegetable intake but moderate to high engagement in physical activity. Barriers to reducing diabetes risk were social (e.g. societal perceptions promoting weight gain) and environmental (e.g. limited affordability of healthy foods, high accessibility of Western diets and lack of physical activity facilities). CONCLUSION There is a need for multicomponent type 2 diabetes prevention interventions that increase knowledge of identifying diabetes risk (e.g. what constitutes excess weight) and create social and physical environments that support healthy lifestyles (e.g. societal perceptions that promote healthy living, increased availability and affordability of healthy foods and physical activity facilities).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Muchai Manyara
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of
Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- Department of Health Systems Management and Public Health,
Technical University of Kenya, Nairobi,
Kenya
- Global Health and Ageing Research Unit, Bristol Medical School,
University of Bristol, Bristol,
UK
| | - Elizabeth Mwaniki
- Department of Health Systems Management and Public Health,
Technical University of Kenya, Nairobi,
Kenya
| | - Jason MR Gill
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of
Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Cindy M Gray
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of
Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- School of Social and Political Sciences, University of
Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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4
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Banda J, Bunn C, Crampin AC, Gill JMR, Gray CM. Qualitative study of practices and attitudes towards physical activity among prediabetic men and women in urban and rural Malawi. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e058261. [PMID: 36653056 PMCID: PMC9853122 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Given the decline in physical activity levels in Malawi, like other sub-Saharan African countries, and its implication for non-communicable disease (NCD) prevention, this study aimed to compare and contrast accounts of practices and attitudes towards physical activity among Malawian men and women (previously identified as having pre-diabetes) in urban and rural settings. SETTING Two communities: one urban (Lilongwe) and one rural (Karonga). PARTICIPANTS 14 men (urban N=6, rural N=8) and 18 women (urban N=9, rural N=9) classified as prediabetic during their participation in an NCD survey 3-5 years previously. DESIGN A qualitative focus group study (N=4) and thematic analysis, with the ecological model used as a framework to characterise the types of physical activity people engaged in and potential ways to support them to exercise more. RESULTS Participants reported undertaking different types of physical activity across all ecological model domains (household, occupational, transport, recreational). Rural participants reported more vigorous physical activities than urban participants, and women reported more household activities than men. Many participants recognised a need to promote physical activity in Malawi, and the health benefits of doing so, including the importance of physical activity in helping them stay strong to maintain physical functioning. Barriers to physical activity included competing priorities (especially urban men), societal expectations around wealth, use of motorised transport, lack of accessible facilities for women, ageing and ill health. CONCLUSIONS Physical activity is declining in Malawi as working and transport practices change in response to economic development, making promotion of alternative forms of physical activity a public health priority. Multilevel interventions emphasising the personal benefits/value of physical activity for all ages, and routine and group-based exercising, as well as investment in accessible recreational facilities (including for women) and active travel infrastructure should be considered to improve physical activity levels in Malawi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jethro Banda
- Malawi Epidemiology and Intervention Research Unit, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Christopher Bunn
- Malawi Epidemiology and Intervention Research Unit, Lilongwe, Malawi
- School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Amelia C Crampin
- Malawi Epidemiology and Intervention Research Unit, Lilongwe, Malawi
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Jason M R Gill
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Cindy M Gray
- School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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Cohen E, Amougou N, Ponty A, Guerrien M, Wakenge W, Chidumwa G, Said-Mohamed R, Fezeu LK, Pasquet P. Direct and Indirect Determinants of Body Mass Index in Both Major Ethnic Groups Experiencing the Nutritional Transition in Cameroon. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:6108. [PMID: 35627645 PMCID: PMC9141336 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19106108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In the context of rapid nutritional transitions in Africa, few studies have analyzed the etiology of obesity by considering the driver pathways that predict body mass index (BMI). The aim of this study is to innovatively identify these driver pathways, including the main sociodemographic and socioecological drivers of BMI. We conducted a rural-urban quantitative study in Cameroon (n = 1106; balanced sex ratio) to explore this issue. We recruited participants and reported several sociodemographic characteristics (e.g., marital status, socioeconomic status (SES), and ethnicity). We then assessed three main socioecological drivers of BMI (body weight perception, dietary intake, and physical activity) and conducted bioanthropometric measurements. We identified several driver pathways predicting BMI. In Cameroon, Bamiléké ethnicity, higher SES, being married, and older age had positive effects on BMI through overweight valorization and/or dietary intake. Accordingly, we found that being Bamiléké, married, and middle-aged, as well as having a higher SES, were factors that constituted at-risk subgroups overexposed to drivers of obesity. As such, this study highlights the necessity of investigating the complex driver pathways that lead to obesity. Therefore, better identification of the subgroups at risk for obesity will help in developing more targeted population health policies in countries where this burden is a major public health issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Cohen
- UMR7206 Eco-Anthropologie (EA), Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Université de Paris, Musée de l’Homme, 17 Place du Trocadéro, 75016 Paris, France; (A.P.); (M.G.); (W.W.); (P.P.)
- SAMRC/WITS Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa; (G.C.); (R.S.-M.)
| | - Norbert Amougou
- UMR7206 Eco-Anthropologie (EA), Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Université de Paris, Musée de l’Homme, 17 Place du Trocadéro, 75016 Paris, France; (A.P.); (M.G.); (W.W.); (P.P.)
| | - Amandine Ponty
- UMR7206 Eco-Anthropologie (EA), Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Université de Paris, Musée de l’Homme, 17 Place du Trocadéro, 75016 Paris, France; (A.P.); (M.G.); (W.W.); (P.P.)
| | - Margaux Guerrien
- UMR7206 Eco-Anthropologie (EA), Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Université de Paris, Musée de l’Homme, 17 Place du Trocadéro, 75016 Paris, France; (A.P.); (M.G.); (W.W.); (P.P.)
| | - Wakilongo Wakenge
- UMR7206 Eco-Anthropologie (EA), Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Université de Paris, Musée de l’Homme, 17 Place du Trocadéro, 75016 Paris, France; (A.P.); (M.G.); (W.W.); (P.P.)
| | - Glory Chidumwa
- SAMRC/WITS Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa; (G.C.); (R.S.-M.)
| | - Rihlat Said-Mohamed
- SAMRC/WITS Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa; (G.C.); (R.S.-M.)
- Department of Archaeology, Faculty of Human, Social and Political Science, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1TN, UK
| | - Léopold K. Fezeu
- Sorbonne Paris Cité, Epidemiology and Statistics Research Center (CRESS), Inserm U1153, Inra U1125, Cnam, University of Paris 13, Nutritional Epidemiology Research Team (EREN), 93017 Bobigny, France;
| | - Patrick Pasquet
- UMR7206 Eco-Anthropologie (EA), Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Université de Paris, Musée de l’Homme, 17 Place du Trocadéro, 75016 Paris, France; (A.P.); (M.G.); (W.W.); (P.P.)
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6
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Pradeilles R, Holdsworth M, Olaitan O, Irache A, Osei-Kwasi HA, Ngandu CB, Cohen E. Body size preferences for women and adolescent girls living in Africa: a mixed-methods systematic review. Public Health Nutr 2022; 25:738-759. [PMID: 33593472 PMCID: PMC9991778 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980021000768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To synthesise evidence on body size preferences for females living in Africa and the factors influencing these. DESIGN Mixed-methods systematic review including searches on Medline, CINHAL, ASSIA, Web of Science and PsycINFO (PROSPERO CRD42015020509). A sequential-explanatory approach was used to integrate quantitative and qualitative findings. SETTING Urban and rural Africa. PARTICIPANTS Studies of both sexes providing data on body size preferences for adolescent girls and women aged ≥10 years. RESULTS Seventy-three articles from twenty-one countries were included: fifty quantitative, fifteen qualitative and eight mixed methods. Most studies reported a preference for normal or overweight body sizes. Some studies of adolescent girls/young women indicated a preference for underweight. Factors influencing preferences for large(r) body sizes included: socio-demographic (e.g. education, rural residency), health-related (e.g. current BMI, pubertal status), psycho-social (e.g. avoiding HIV stigma) and socio-cultural factors (e.g. spouse's preference, social standing, cultural norms). Factors influencing preferences for slim(mer) body sizes included: socio-demographic (e.g. higher socioeconomic status, urban residency, younger age), health-related (e.g. health knowledge, being nulliparous), psycho-social (e.g. appearance, body size perception as overweight/obese) and socio-cultural factors (e.g. peer pressure, media). CONCLUSIONS Preference for overweight (not obese) body sizes among some African females means that interventions need to account for the array of factors that maintain these preferences. The widespread preference for normal weight is positive in public health terms, but the valorisation of underweight in adolescent girls/young women may lead to an increase in body dissatisfaction. Emphasis needs to be placed on education to prevent all forms of malnutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Pradeilles
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences (SSEHS), Loughborough University, LoughboroughLE11 3TU, UK
| | - Michelle Holdsworth
- UMR MoISA (Montpellier Interdisciplinary Centre on Sustainable Agri-food Systems), (Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, CIHEAM-IAMM, INRAE, Institut Agro, IRD), Montpellier, France
| | | | - Ana Irache
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | | | - Christian B Ngandu
- MRC/Wits Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Emmanuel Cohen
- MRC/Wits Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- UMR CNRS-MNHN 7206 « Eco-anthropologie », Musée de l’Homme, Paris, France
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7
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Coker JF, Hill KM, Otu AA, House A. Statin-use and perceptions of high cholesterol as predictors of healthy lifestyle behaviours in Nigerians. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000190. [PMID: 36962358 PMCID: PMC10022232 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
It is unclear how statin-use influences the adoption of healthy lifestyle choices. It is important to understand the nature of this relationship as this could facilitate targeted public health interventions which could help promote a healthy lifestyle, curb the rise of non-communicable diseases, and facilitate overall health. This study aimed to explore whether statin-use influenced the adoption of healthy lifestyle choices by changing the way urban and semi-urban Nigerians thought about their high cholesterol and their future risk of cardiovascular disease. Structured questionnaires were used to compare the lifestyle behaviours, perceptions of high cholesterol and future risk of cardiovascular disease of statin users and non-statin users recruited in urban and a semi-urban Nigeria. In-depth, face-to-face interviews were used to further explore the relationship between statin-use and the adoption of healthy lifestyle choices, and explore the influence of personal and social factors on this relationship. The odds of adopting a low-fat diet increased as perceived statin-effectiveness increased (OR = 2.33, p<0.05), demonstrating a synergistic relationship between statin-use and the adoption of healthy of lifestyle choices. In addition to this synergistic association, at interview, two other relationships were found between statin use and the adoption of healthy lifestyle choices: an antagonistic relationship fuelled by a strong perception of statin effectiveness and a perceived inability to make healthy lifestyle changes, which favoured statin-use, and an antagonistic relationship fuelled by congruous cause-control beliefs and concerns about medication-use which favoured the adoption of healthy lifestyle choices. The odds of adopting a low-fat diet was 5 times greater in urban dwellers than in semi-urban dwellers (p<0.01). Statin-use influenced the adoption of healthy lifestyle choices in three different ways, which require exploration at clinical consultation. Gender, social obligations, and physical environment also influenced statin-use and the adoption of healthy lifestyle choices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce F Coker
- Cambridge Public Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Kate M Hill
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Akaninyene A Otu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross Rivers State, Nigeria
| | - Allan House
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
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8
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Thornborrow T, Onwuegbusi T, Mohamed S, Boothroyd LG, Tovée MJ. Muscles and the Media: A Natural Experiment Across Cultures in Men's Body Image. Front Psychol 2020; 11:495. [PMID: 32308635 PMCID: PMC7145896 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
An increasing number of studies are evidencing relationships between the drive for muscularity and potentially harmful behavioral strategies, such as unhealthy dieting and steroid use amongst men in WEIRD (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, Democratic) populations. As such Western appearance standards proliferate around the world via the media, men who live in other cultural contexts are also at risk of potentially negative effects from aspiring to the “muscular ideal.” However, few studies have explored these relationships in non-WEIRD populations. We investigated men’s body ideals and body image in two non-WEIRD, non-White populations, Uganda (Africa) and Nicaragua (Central America), and compared them with an ethnically diverse sample of men in the United Kingdom. We also examined whether socio-cultural factors including media and ethnicity, predicted the drive for muscularity and body change behaviors among our participants. Results showed that Ugandan men had the least desire for muscularity relative to men in the United Kingdom. Supporting the Tripartite model we found that media and peer influences significantly predicted the drive for muscularity, particularly among men from White British and Nicaraguan Miskitu ethnic groups. By contrast, Creole / Garifuna and Mestizo men from Nicaragua were more likely to want to increase muscularity relative to Black African men from Uganda. Overall, our findings support previous research in demonstrating that there are cultural differences in the kind of body men desire, and that men from WEIRD and non-WEIRD populations may experience similar pressures to aspire to and attain a muscular body type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracey Thornborrow
- School of Psychology, College of Social Science, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
| | - Tochukwu Onwuegbusi
- School of Psychology, College of Social Science, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
| | - Sophie Mohamed
- School of Psychology, College of Social Science, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
| | | | - Martin J Tovée
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
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9
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Dijkstra P, Van Brummen-Girigori O, Barelds DPH. Weight-Related Selves and Their Relationship With Body Mass Index Among Young Individuals in Curaçao. JOURNAL OF BLACK PSYCHOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/0095798419865402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Based on the assumptions of self-discrepancy theory, the present study examined the degree of overweight, weight-related body images, and the relation between these images and body mass index (BMI) among two samples of young people from Curaçao (secondary school students, n = 176; undergraduate students, n = 205). In addition to BMI, participants reported their current, ideal, and most feared body sizes, the thinnest and largest body sizes still acceptable to them, and the body size they considered the healthiest by means of the Contour Drawing Rating Scale. We expected females to show a larger discrepancy between current and ideal body size than males (Hypothesis 1) and that this discrepancy (as an indicator of body dissatisfaction) would be related more strongly to BMI among females than among males (Hypothesis 2). Results yielded support for Hypothesis 1 among secondary school students only. Only in the undergraduate sample, BMI and body dissatisfaction were related, but equally so for males and females. Possible explanations are discussed as well as implications for weight management interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pieternel Dijkstra
- Institute for Social Psychology: Research, Education and Coaching, Groningen, Netherlands
- Foundation Fair Educational Chance, Willemstad, Curaçao
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10
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Cohen E, Gradidge PJL, Micklesfield LK, Norris SA. Relationship Between Body Mass Index and Body Image Disturbances Among South African Mothers and Their Daughters Living in Soweto, Johannesburg. FAMILY & COMMUNITY HEALTH 2019; 42:140-149. [PMID: 30768479 DOI: 10.1097/fch.0000000000000220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
In South African families, a phenomenon of mothers' acceptance of stoutness coexists with their daughters' appreciation for thinness. A sample of N = 615 mother-and-daughter pairs was recruited to conjointly identify the relationships toward body image and body mass index between both groups by assessing body weight satisfaction, body esteem, and eating disorders risk. We observed higher prevalence of obesity in mothers and higher eating disorders risk in daughters, while mother-daughter relationships were identified for body mass index and psychometric dimensions. The high prevalence of obesity in mothers and their tolerance for stoutness could expose their daughters to eating disorders and obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Cohen
- MRC/Wits Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, Johannesburg, South Africa (Drs Cohen, Micklesfield, and Norris); and Centre for Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Wits Education Campus, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, Johannesburg, South Africa (Dr Gradidge)
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11
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Goedecke JH, Mtintsilana A, Dlamini SN, Kengne AP. Type 2 diabetes mellitus in African women. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2017; 123:87-96. [PMID: 28006698 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2016.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Compared to global estimates, Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has the highest projected rates of increase in type 2 diabetes (T2D) over the next 25years. This is attributed to the ageing population, increasing urbanisation and the associated lifestyle changes. Although the prevalence does not differ by gender, deaths attributable to T2D in SSA are greater in women, likely due to differences in beliefs and access to care. Women in SSA also have greater risk factor burden for T2D than men, in particular obesity, which is explained in part by sociocultural factors. The pathogenesis of diabetes differs between African and Caucasian women, with implications for risk assessment. African women are more insulin resistant than their Caucasian counterparts, despite a more 'favourable' body fat distribution. Notably, women in SSA face the dual burden of T2D and HIV/AIDS. HIV positive women in SSA are typically young and obese, with the latter being exacerbated by anti-retroviral therapy (ART). Cultural perceptions regarding weight loss and limited financial resources are the major limitations to the management of T2D. Hence prevention is vital. However, there is a paucity of studies examining the effectiveness and sustainability of interventions to reduce T2D in SSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia H Goedecke
- Non-Communicable Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Asanda Mtintsilana
- Medical Research Council/University of Witwatersrand, Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Siphiwe N Dlamini
- Medical Research Council/University of Witwatersrand, Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Andre Pascal Kengne
- Non-Communicable Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
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Toselli S, Rinaldo N, Gualdi-Russo E. Body image perception of African immigrants in Europe. Global Health 2016; 12:48. [PMID: 27558365 PMCID: PMC4995766 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-016-0184-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Accepted: 08/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Nutritional disorders are now spreading worldwide both in developed and developing countries. Body image ideals and dissatisfaction have been linked to a number of poor health outcomes, including nutritional disorders. While previous studies have offered insight into weight status and body image perception of immigrants in North America, very few studies have analysed these aspects in migrants from Africa to Europe. Our review examines the effects of the migration process on beauty ideals and body dissatisfaction in African immigrants in Europe compared to residents in their own countries. The PubMed, PsycINFO and Google Scholar databases were searched for studies published from January 2000 till November 2015. Of the 730 titles identified, 26 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the present review. Among African residents, the body preferences depend on the country of residence and their socio-cultural status. Ethnic groups living in great isolation or with low incomes still have an ancestral idea of beauty, preferring a shapely body. However ethnic groups living in urban areas are moving toward Westernization of beauty ideals, preferring underweight or normal weight bodies. This review highlights that both residents and migrants are at high risk of nutritional disorders due to the adoption of Western beauty ideals. The results suggest that body dissatisfaction and BMI are increasing from Southern Africa to Europe according to a geographical gradient (described for females by Spearman's coefficient and linear regression, respectively). We emphasize the need for monitoring of the weight and psychological status of immigrants and the development of specific preventive strategies in European countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Toselli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Natascia Rinaldo
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Emanuela Gualdi-Russo
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Blood pressure and body size preference in traditional communities of Ilorin metropolis, Nigeria. Cardiovasc Endocrinol 2015. [DOI: 10.1097/xce.0000000000000048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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Body size preference among Yoruba in three Nigerian communities. Eat Weight Disord 2014; 19:77-88. [PMID: 24174319 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-013-0060-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2012] [Accepted: 08/20/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Following our previous observation of an aversion to weight reduction in Nigerians with type 2 diabetes, we measured several parameters of body dimensions and preferences in otherwise healthy adults in three communities to study the phenomenon further. The study population of 524 participants (304 F) was 99.8% of Yoruba ethnic origin with a mean age of 43.9 ± 17.2 years. Females had a significantly (p > 0.001) higher body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, hip circumference compared to the males; the values being 24.55 ± 5.5 vs. 21.75 ± 3.71 kg/m(2); 84.98 ± 12.67 vs. 80.92 ± 9.85 cm; 96.32 ± 12.94 vs. 89.36 ± 8.06 cm, respectively. There was a high level of satisfaction amongst respondents with their body size (Kendall's t = 0.52, p < 0.001) which they also predicted with a high degree of certainty even without the prior use of a weighing scale. The relationship between current body size (CBI) and BMI emerged as CBI = 1.22 + 0.32 BMI. In the 41% of respondents who expressed unhappiness with their current body size, there was a strong aversion for a smaller body size and the preference was often for a bigger body figure. Strikingly, many more women than men were less dissatisfied with their bigger body sizes. Stepwise regression indicated that CBI and gender were the two most important variables that best related to casual blood sugar (RBS) among the factors entered. The mathematical relationship between these variables that emerged was: [Formula: see text] where gender = 0 for male and 1 for female. The results suggest that larger body sizes were positively viewed in these communities consistent with our previous observations in type 2 diabetes.
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