Date of Conferral
2023
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Health Education and Promotion
Advisor
Carol Spaulding
Abstract
AbstractAfrican immigrants to the United States face many challenges when diagnosed with obesity and other chronic health conditions. However, research concerning the role of cultural diets in preventing or ameliorating chronic health conditions including obesity has rarely focused on African immigrants. The purpose of this study was to explore the opinions, perceptions, and experiences of African immigrants on cultural diet preferences in the prevention of chronic health conditions, including obesity. Using the theory of assimilation and acculturation theory as a framework for the inquiry, the research questions focused on exploring the experiences, opinions, and perceptions of African immigrants concerning chronic health conditions, and their cultural diet practices. This qualitative case study employed semi-structured interviews with 10 adults who had legally immigrated, lived in the Bay Area of California, and had been diagnosed with any chronic health conditions. Transcripts of the recorded interviews provided the basis for initial identification and coding of recurring words and phrases. This coding allowed for the development and organization of themes that were then analyzed in relation to the research questions. Key findings of the study were that these African immigrants preferred to maintain their African cultural diet for the prevention of chronic diseases and reported negative experiences, opinions, and perceptions about the American fast-food diets, which they associated with chronic diseases. Future research should expand the exploration of the implications for better health outcomes among African immigrants and other populations through using cultural diets to help prevent chronic health conditions including obesity. Promoting dietary practices that include healthy foods which are culturally relevant for African immigrants can contribute to positive social change by improving individual and community health.
Recommended Citation
Ukagumaoha, Jahswill, "The Cultural Diet Behaviors of African Immigrants in California for Preventing Chronic Health Conditions including Obesity" (2023). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 14926.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/14926
