Understanding African-American Women's Low-sodium Dietary Practices: A Qualitative Perspective

Objectives: This qualitative study explored how African-American women perceived certain typical low-sodium dietary practices. Methods: This research applied a single category focus group design; 22 African-American women (aged 18 years and older) having hypertension completed a demographic survey before focus group sessions. Constant comparison analysis helped to identify major themes. NVivo 11 aided in data storage, organization, and information management. Results: We found that individuals tend to take action if they believe the action will address their health condition. Some participants indicated they were taking measures to reduce their sodium intake. However, other participants were not actively engaging in reducing their sodium intake despite acknowledging the positive benefits of doing so. Conclusions: Study findings showed the participants perceived the potential benefits of dietary changes as being less significant than the perceived barriers to implementing them. Furthermore, these perceived barriers to taking action may have stemmed from these women's lack of motivation and self-efficacy.