Lifestyle and Food-Related Behaviors Refugees and Immigrants Experience Upon Migration to Atlanta, Georgia Open Access
Al-Araji, Rabab (Spring 2018)
Published
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The number of immigrants in the USA continues to rise, however, there is limited understanding of what factors are associated with post-resettlement food intake and how to best promote immigrant health and nutrition.1
DATA: In chapter 2 we also used photovoice to examine the complexities associated with integration among a group of refugee adolescents (n=40) between the ages of 10-18. In chapter 3 we used a simple survey instrument to examine food and beverage items immigrants report consuming more or less of post-migration, socio-environmental factors that may influence changes in dietary selection, and perceptions of the healthfulness of foods and beverages. A sample of (n=49) adult immigrants and refugees between the ages of 18-65 were included in our study
METHODS: In chapter 2 a thematic analysis approach was used to analyze this group-generated qualitative data. We thematically analyzed frequently re-occurring images to identify topical areas and themes throughout the photos. We then combined and categorized recurring segments from the transcripts along with recurring images to create meaningful categories. In chapter 3 we conducted post-survey coding of food groups, followed by descriptive analysis were conducted for all variables in the survey. Findings were stratified by region of origin – Asia, Africa, Middle East, Europe. Chi-square analyses were analyzed with ordinal logistic regression analysis, presented with odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).
FINDINGS: Results of this study highlight an increase in leisure-time sedentary behaviors, physical activity related barriers and changes in food related habits. Unprocessed low‐energy dense foods and food high in fiber were reportedly replaced with foods that are refined high‐energy dense and low in fiber. This may have implications for dietary intake of sugar, fat, simple carbohydrates.2 Cost, convenience and taste preferences were found to predominate food consumption, over and above individual factors such as knowledge, skills, and motivation.3
INTERPRETATION: Knowledge of potential determinants of behavior is necessary for developing interventions, and information on health determinants in ethnic groups is often lacking. Nutrition educators should consider the dietary changes of immigrant participants, such as increased consumption frequency of fast foods and soft drinks, which were observed in this study. Moreover, further research is warranted to examine the impact of leisure time sedentary behaviors, transportation, land use, and infrastructure have on health.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Distribution Agreement……........................................................................................i
Approval Sheet............................................................................................................ii
Abstract Cover Page...................................................................................................iii Abstract....................................................................................................................iv-v
Cover Page………......................................................................................................vi Acknowledgements…………...........................................................................….....vii
Table of Contents......................................................................................................viii
Chapter 1. Introduction.................................................................................................1
Chapter 2. America Through the Eyes of Refugee Youth……....................................3
Chapter 3. Working with Refugees Field Notes.........................................................35
Chapter 4. Food Consumption Patterns, Perceptions of Healthy Eating, and Motives
Influencing Dietary Decisions among Adult Immigrants and Refugees in Atlanta, Georgia......................................................................................................................40
Chapter 5. Conclusion…….......................................................................................74
Bibliography………..……........................................................................................76
About this Master's Thesis
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