Date of Conferral

6-4-2024

Date of Award

June 2024

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Health

Advisor

Nicoletta Alexander

Abstract

Childhood obesity (CHO) rates have increased significantly worldwide over the last decade. The magnitude of CHO extends beyond physical health to include economic stability, social connections, and access to daily living resources. CHO is complex and requires a multifaceted approach that may differ from traditional prevention approaches and treatment. Over the years, interventions have focused on maintaining a balance of healthy eating and active living to reduce weight and promote lifelong behavior change. Body mass index (BMI) surveillance studies have been conducted in Cherokee County, South Carolina since 2012 to assess and inform CHO interventions. However, the data have not been adequately explored to determine associations between the socioeconomic data collected and CHO. This study explored the impact of poverty, race/ethnicity, and gender on CHO in Cherokee County, South Carolina. Using a cross-sectional research design and secondary data sets from local surveillance studies and relying on life course health development as the conceptual framework, this quantitative study addressed an overarching research question concerning the association between poverty, race/ethnicity, gender, and weight status of first-, third-, and fifth-grade students attending public schools in Cherokee County, South Carolina. Results revealed significant associations between poverty, race/ethnicity, and weight status but no significant associations between gender and weight status. Implications for positive social change included informing practitioners on developing customizable CHO interventions that should enhance the social drivers of health over time and improve the quality of life for children in the county.

Download

Included in

Public Health Commons

Share

 
COinS