Does concern motivate behavior change? Exploring the relationship between physical activity and body mass index among low-income housing residents.
OBJECTIVE
To explore relationships between concerns and physical activity and body mass index (BMI) among a racially/ethnically diverse low-income population.


METHODS
A cross-sectional survey documented behavioral risks among racially/ethnically diverse low-income residents in the Boston area (2005-2009). Multivariable logistic regressions were conducted in 2012 for each concern, using SAS version 9.2.


RESULTS
Those very/moderately concerned about weight were more likely to have higher BMIs, be in the preparation/action stage, received behavioral counseling, participated in a weight management program, and be interested in participating in one in the future. Those very/moderately concerned about physical activity were more likely to have higher BMIs, received behavioral counseling, and participated in a physical activity program.


CONCLUSIONS
Individuals with elevated BMIs or low levels of physical activity are concerned. While level of concern is important, these findings suggest that it is not likely to be a sufficient catalyst to behavior change.
Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA stamers@post.harvard.edu.
Sara L
SL
Tamers
Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA.
Jennifer
J
Allen
New England Research Institutes, Inc., Watertown, MA, USA.
May
M
Yang
New England Research Institutes, Inc., Watertown, MA, USA.
Anne
A
Stoddard
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, WI, USA.
Amy
A
Harley
Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA.
Glorian
G
Sorensen
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001521:Behavior Therapy; D015992:Body Mass Index; D001900:Boston; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005006:Ethnicity; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior; D006801:Humans; D033182:Intention; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009042:Motivation; D011203:Poverty; D011638:Public Housing; D044469:Racial Groups; D020377:Self Efficacy; D015431:Weight Loss; D055815:Young Adult
body mass index; concerns; low-income; physical activity; racial/ethnic minorities