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Published on: October 1, 2011
Perceptions of body size in Pacific Islanders
A A Brewis1, S T McGarvey, J Jones
1Department of Anthropology, The University of Georgia, Athens 30602-1619, USA.
Summary
Samoans in Samoa and New Zealand desire slim body sizes, despite high obesity rates. Unlike Western views, they do not strongly associate obesity with negative health perceptions.
Area of Science:
- Anthropology
- Public Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Pacific island populations, particularly Samoans, exhibit exceptionally high rates of obesity.
- Cultural norms traditionally favored larger body sizes, contrasting with global trends.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate body size perceptions and attitudes towards obesity among Samoan adults.
- To explore the influence of cultural background on body image in Samoa and New Zealand.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving Samoan adults aged 25-55 in Samoa and Auckland, New Zealand.
- Data collection included Body Mass Index (BMI) measurements, standardized surveys on bodyweight and health perceptions, diet, exercise, and body size preferences.
Main Results:
- Despite high obesity prevalence, Samoans idealize slim body sizes, with body dissatisfaction and weight loss attempts observed.
- Individuals with higher Body Mass Index (BMI) did not typically perceive themselves as obese and reported positive body image and health perceptions.
- Obese women were not more inclined to attempt weight loss compared to their non-obese counterparts.
Conclusions:
- The traditional Samoan cultural value of large bodies is not reflected in current ideals, which favor slimness.
- A key distinction from Western societies is the lack of a strongly negative perception of obesity within the Samoan population.
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