Health-promotion practices of young black women at risk for diabetes.
The purpose of this study was to assess the health-promoting practices of young black women at risk for type 2 diabetes.



The sample consisted of 30 black women from an urban area who had a history of gestational diabetes and/or a first-degree relative with diabetes. Participants completed the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile II Survey and an interview. Both were used to categorize health-promoting practices, exercise, diet, knowledge of diabetes prevention, and general health.



Demographic information and interview revealed a propensity towards obesity, despite education and income levels. The results for the Lifestyle II Survey showed a higher average total score for healthy nutrition than physical activity, which were inconsistent with the qualitative data obtained by interview. Fifty percent stated that they exercised as a general health-promoting behavior. Self-reported daily caloric, fiber, and fat intake was high to moderate; 60% reported initiating diet modifications secondary to a desire to lose weight or for medical problems; and 26% reported receiving information on diabetes prevention from a healthcare provider.



A systematic approach of planning and actively incorporating health-promoting activities into one's lifestyle as a young adult may protect or delay the onset of diabetes and prevent complications.
Jefferson
V W
VW
School of Nursing, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06536-0740, USA.
Melkus
G D
GD
School of Nursing, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06536-0740, USA.
Spollett
G R
GR
School of Nursing, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06536-0740, USA.
D000328:Adult; D001741:Black or African American / Q000193:education* / Q000523:psychology*; D003237:Connecticut; D003924:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / Q000208:ethnology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior / Q000208:ethnology*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D020380:Needs Assessment; D012307:Risk Factors; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014930:Women / Q000193:education* / Q000523:psychology*