Journal article
Un Corazón Saludable: Factors Influencing Outcomes of an Exercise Program Designed to Impact Cardiac and Metabolic Risks among Urban Latinas
Journal of community health, v 32(6), pp 401-412
01 Dec 2007
PMID: 17940871
Featured in Collection : UN Sustainable Development Goals @ Drexel
Abstract
A high prevalence of physical inactivity, metabolic risk factors, and depression place Latinas in peril of developing cardiovascular disease. "Un Corazon Saludable: A Healthy Heart" was developed to engage urban Latinas in physical activity and increase awareness of cardiac and metabolic risk factors. Two hundred and twenty-five Latinas enrolled in the program that included salsa aerobics and culturally sensitive health education modules. Cardiac and metabolic risk factors measured in this study were body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio, abdominal obesity, and blood pressure. Psychosocial risk factors measured included depressive symptoms and perceived social support. Fifty-two percent of the enrollees completed the program. Results indicated decreases in BMI, abdominal obesity, and symptoms of depression among Latinas who completed the program. Those who did not complete the program were younger, had greater depressive symptomatology, reported poorer social support, and they tended to be caregivers and U.S. born. Focus groups of program participants ascertained that caregiving and family obligations were major barriers to exercise while social support was a major facilitator of exercise. This research indicates that programs developed to recognize and address cultural barriers can impact physical and psychosocial risk factors among urban Latinas who are able to attend. Program retention may improve if future exercise programs conducted through community-base organizations offered support to Latinas regarding issues that interfere with self-care and health promotion. Future programs should consider including mental health and social service case management as part of comprehensive exercise/educational programs. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]
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Details
- Title
- Un Corazón Saludable: Factors Influencing Outcomes of an Exercise Program Designed to Impact Cardiac and Metabolic Risks among Urban Latinas
- Creators
- Tina Harralson - Einstein Center for Urban Health Policy and ResearchJulie Emig - Congreso de Latinos UnidosMarcia Polansky - Drexel UniversityRenee Walker - Einstein Center for Urban Health Policy and ResearchJoanna Cruz - Congreso de Latinos UnidosClaudia Garcia-Leeds - Congreso de Latinos Unidos
- Publication Details
- Journal of community health, v 32(6), pp 401-412
- Publisher
- Springer Nature B.V
- Resource Type
- Journal article
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- [Retired Faculty]
- Web of Science ID
- WOS:000250206500003
- Scopus ID
- 2-s2.0-35348977871
- Other Identifier
- 991019169618904721
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- Web of Science research areas
- Health Policy & Services
- Public, Environmental & Occupational Health