Unhealthy Weight Gain During Treatment for Alcohol and Drug Use in Four Residential Programs for Latina and African American Women

Abstract

Weight gain in women (n = 52) in four alcohol and drug user residential treatment programs in Boston, Massachusetts, was studied in 2004 through focus groups (n = 52) and weekly weights (n = 10). Focus group theme analyses revealed that weight gain was primarily attributed to availability of food and lack of exercise. Participants were very interested in improving nutrition, diet, and exercise in the programs. Weight gain (mean = 6.4 pounds) occurred in nine women (n = 10) in the first 12 weeks of treatment. The two-dimensional Food Model Chart and the Yale Physical Activity Survey were used. Limitations are noted and future research is suggested.

Keywords:

• weight gain
• obesity
• exercise
• substance use
• residential treatment program
• Latina women
• African American women