Physical inactivity in female African-American adolescents: consequences, costs, & care

Physical inactivity is a major public health problem and there is a higher prevalence of physical inactivity in female African-American adolescents. Physical inactivity is an independent risk factor for many chronic diseases such as heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and obesity, which are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Therefore, addressing physical inactivity during adolescence may be a key to reducing health disparities and to improving the health of female African-American adolescents both now and in their future womanhood. This paper presents an overview of the substantial health and economic consequences that are associated with physical inactivity. In addition, family focused, community-oriented, and church-based strategies that are aimed at increasing physical activity in female African-American adolescents are discussed.