Obesity among eastern cherokee indian women: Prevalence, self‐perceptions and experiences†

Based on a dissertation submitted by Rhonda D. Terry in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.

Weight for height, body mass index and triceps skinfold measurements of 104 Eastern Cherokee Indian women were evaluated and compared with various anthropometric standards and percentiles. Regardless of the standard used, study participants demonstrated a high prevalence of obesity. Although desire to change weight was expressed at all weight levels, heavier subjects tended to be more dissatisfied with their weight. At the time of study 40.0 percent of women were engaged in weight change activities and 75.2 percent had attempted to weight change in the past.

Key words:

• obesity
• American Indian
• Cherokee
• adult women
• weight
• body mass index
• triceps skinfold

Notes

Based on a dissertation submitted by Rhonda D. Terry in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.

Current address is Department of Food and Nutrition, College of Home Economics, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011.