Obesity in Immigrants

Obesity in Immigrants

Alvin Sherman Library 4009

Obesity is one of the main health problems in the United States. The number of immigrants is increasing dramatically over the years. (Satia-Abouta, Patterson, Neuhouser, Elder, 2002). Immigrants to the U.S. often acquire new eating patterns as they become accustomed to the American products, fast-food culture and sedentary lifestyle. The acculturation to the American lifestyle places immigrants at risk for obesity. (Thompson, Coronado, Solomon, 2004). The purpose of this research is to create an awareness of the problem immigrants are having when immigrating to the U.S. Since this problem could be the cause of more health problems such as hypertension, diabetes, and psychological problems such as social anxiety and depression. (Smith, P.K, Bogin B., Varela-Silva, M.I., Orden, B., Loucky, J., 2002). My goal is to encourage the immigrants to maintain their dietary patterns and high physical activity levels in order to reduce the risk of obesity. In addition, I would like to encourage researchers to find a cause and a solution to this problem.