A review of childhood obesity prevention interventions targeting African American children

Obesity is a significant public health concern. Unfortunately, obesity affects minority youth populations disproportionately, with African Americans (AAs) 1.4 times as likely to be obese as non-Hispanic whites. There are a variety of reasons for the disparity of the obesogenic risk in AA children. In addition to genetic factors, cultural differences related to the nutritional habits, level of physical activity and acceptance of surplus weight among AAs play a major role in the development of obesity in this population. Considering these high-risk behaviors, and the associated barriers, the Institute of Medicine has expressed an urgent need to initiate childhood obesity interventions among diverse ethnic groups. Therefore, the purpose of this article was to review existing childhood obesity prevention interventions targeting AA children that were published between 2005 and 2010. This review was limited to interventions in which the population included more than 35% of AA children and adolescents. There was an abundance of interventions related to childhood obesity prevention, but fewer targeting specifically AA children and adolescents. A total of 18 interventions have been summarized, including behavioral, social and environmental approaches. Recommendations are presented to enhance childhood obesity interventions among diverse ethnic groups.