Early Life Factors for Overweight Risk Among Infants of Hispanic Immigrant Mothers
Kathleen F Gaffney1, Deborah A Kermer2, Panagiota Kitsantas2
1Kathleen F. Gaffney, Professor, School of Nursing, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA.; Deborah A. Kermer, Data Services Research Consultant, University Libraries, Data Services, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA.; Panagiota Kitsantas, Professor, Health Administration and Policy Department, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA.; Albert V. Brito, Medical Director, Inova Cares Clinic for Children, Falls Church, VA.; Katya M. Ramos, Research Assistant, School of Nursing, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA.; Graciela Pereddo, Research Assistant, Global and Community Health Department, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA.; Luisa Villatoro, Research Assistant, School of Nursing, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA..
Introduction:
This study examined postpartum depression, food insecurity, and underestimation of infant size as potential early life factors for overweight risk at 12 months among infants of Hispanic immigrant mothers.
Method:
Weight-for-length (WFL) measurements and face-to-face interviews were completed during well child visits. Regression models estimated the impact of early life factors (0-6 months) on overweight risk at 1 year.
Results:
WFL ≥ 85th percentile was found among 2.4% at birth and 42.7% at 1 year. Most mothers (78.6%) experienced food insecurity, a factor that increased the likelihood of infant overweight risk by 2.29 times (1.03-5.09). Maternal underestimation of infant size increased the likelihood of overweight risk 5.07 times (2.57-9.99). Postpartum depression risk did not contribute to infant weight status.
Discussion:
Assessment for maternal food insecurity and underestimation of infant weight status during early infancy may help reduce overweight risk and subsequent obesity for this vulnerable population.
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