Obesity challenges and remedies in adults who reside in an midwestern community

The prevalence and severity of obesity has increased to the point that it is now a major contributor to morbidity and mortality in the United States. Previous research indicates that communities are fighting this obesity epidemic through the promotion of physical exercise and healthy eating; however, there are gaps in the current literature regarding the effectiveness of these initiatives. The purpose of this mixed method exploratory study was to assess the general effectiveness of community-based intervention using a more specific research question that explored if a structured physical exercise program helped residents lose or maintain weight. This examination of an intervention program that was based on the trans-theoretical model change examined improvement in lifestyle practices from 2005 to 2008 among a convenience sample of 23 program participants living in an Midwestern community. The dietary behavior survey (DBS) was used to assess the obesity participants' current eating and physical exercise habits after completing the program. The DBS provides quantitative assessments of knowledge, attitudes and self-reported behaviors; and qualitative extensions of the numerical scales were thematically coded to validate the numerical data. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation and chi-square analyses were used to assess levels of cognitive and behavioral DBS items; and map associations linking attitudes and knowledge with behavior. Significant associations were found linking the cognitive elements of the DBS; however, little impact was observed regarding self-reported behavior. This study contributes to positive social change by calling attention to specific opportunities to improve community-based obesity interventions and create better programs, which in turn can enhance the heath and quality of life of the residents living in those communities.