Date of Conferral

3-25-2025

Date of Award

March 2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Health

Advisor

Jennifer Oliphant

Abstract

The rising prevalence of obesity among pregnant women presents significant health risks for mothers and children, beginning as early as intrauterine life throughout adulthood. The purpose of this quantitative cross-sectional study was to investigate whether demographic factors influenced obesity awareness as a personal issue in pregnant Hispanic women. The precaution adoption process model guided the study, a theoretical framework focusing on stages of health behavior change, including awareness, decision making, and action. A purposive sample of 134 pregnant Hispanic women aged 18 years or older receiving prenatal care in urban New Jersey was surveyed using the English (15) and Spanish (119) Obesity Awareness Insight Scale. Findings revealed that prepregnancy body mass index (BMI), a key tool for identifying obesity, significantly influenced obesity awareness, while factors such as age, education, and prenatal education had minimal impact. While BMI is a valuable indicator, obesity awareness extends beyond this by addressing the broader factors influencing health, reducing stigma, and fostering healthier lifestyle behaviors. A holistic approach is essential, one that not only encourages and supports healthier habits but also improves access to quality healthcare. This understanding is essential for healthcare providers to create effective, culturally sensitive prenatal education and interventions that improve health literacy and promote healthier lifestyles, especially among Hispanic women. These findings highlight the need for targeted strategies that shape public health policies with lasting, generational impact.

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