It's about Attitude: Understanding Lifestyle Choices That Affect Diabetes Risk Among Utah Pacific Islander Adolescents

Objective:To describe the underlying lifestyle choices and attitudes that contribute to the increased risk of diabetes among Pacific Islander (PI) adolescents in Utah

Methods:The PI population is young, with approximately one-third under age 18.  Its youth have an excess risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes, but little is known about their lifestyle choices, including eating habits and degree of physical activity, that contribute to the excess risk. In fall, 2009, the National Tongan American Society (NTAS) conducted key informant interviews among PI youth to study the lifestyle choices related to the risk. NTAS then developed and conducted the Youth Behavior Survey, with questions based on the statewide Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS).  Questionnaires were distributed at churches to over 100 PI youth between the ages of 12 and 18.

Results:  In addition to YRBS questions, key informant interview results were used to develop more culturally specifc questions for the Youth Behavior Survey. The survey is in progress. The study will assess body mass index, physical activity, eating habits, attitude towards current weight, lunchtime fast food consumption, and screen time. Findings will be compared with YRBS and used to develop targeted and interventions for PI youth incorporating their expressed values.  NTAS will use the National Diabetes Education Program’s “Tips for Teens” as the foundation for interventions.

Conclusion: The high rate of obesity and related diabetes risk is well known among PI youth but few interventions effectively address the needs for this unique population. Targeted surveys will provide valuable information for developing such interventions.