Extreme Weight Loss Behaviors in Racially Diverse Urban Adolescents

Area of Science:

• Adolescent Health
• Behavioral Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Extreme weight loss behaviors (EWLBs) represent a critical health concern for adolescents.
• Existing research indicates a correlation between EWLBs and other detrimental health behaviors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlates of EWLB in a diverse adolescent population.
• To extend previous findings by examining EWLB in an inner-city, predominantly minority adolescent sample.

Main Methods:

• Secondary analysis of EWLB data from 3,876 adolescents in an inner-city pediatric emergency department.
• Sample demographics: 60% African-American, 20% Hispanic, 16% Caucasian, 4% Asian-Pacific Islander.
• Statistical methods included comparative analyses and multivariate logistic regressions.

Main Results:

• Fifteen percent of adolescents reported engaging in EWLBs.
• No significant difference in EWLB endorsement was observed between minority and Caucasian groups, or among minority subgroups.
• Correlates of EWLB included female gender, hopelessness, history of abuse, current smoking, and alcohol consumption.

Conclusions:

• EWLB prevalence is similar across minority and Caucasian adolescents in this emergency department sample.
• Identified correlates of EWLB present potential targets for adolescent health interventions.
• Early intervention strategies focusing on hopelessness, abuse history, smoking, and alcohol use are recommended.