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Description

Chronic diseases such as heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and cancer are closely linked to diet. However, many individuals rely on familial teachings rather than formal nutritional education, shaping their health perceptions and dietary behaviors. Understanding how Gen Z African American female college students perceive these links is crucial for developing effective health interventions that address cultural and generational influences. This study investigates how health messaging on social media influences the behaviors of African American women. This poster explores how Gen Z African American female college students understand the relationship between diet and chronic disease, the sources of their nutritional knowledge, and the challenges faced in adopting healthier eating habits. A qualitative research approach was employed, using semi-structured interviews to examine participants’ awareness of diet-related health risks, sources of information, and behavioral adaptations. Data were analyzed thematically to identify key patterns in their perceptions, attitudes, and decision-making processes regarding nutrition and health. Participants identified family health history, media, healthcare professionals, and personal experiences as primary sources of dietary information. While some actively attempted to adopt healthier eating habits, others struggled to overcome generational dietary patterns. Emotional, financial, and cultural ties to traditional foods posed significant barriers to sustained change, often reinforcing unhealthy habits. Findings highlight the need to enhance nutritional education beyond familial teachings and develop targeted interventions supporting sustainable, health-conscious decisions. Breaking unhealthy generational patterns requires culturally relevant strategies integrating scientific knowledge and community support systems to promote long-term dietary improvements.

Publication Date

4-1-2025

Keywords

chronic disease, diet and health, nutritional education, African American women, Gen Z, college students, health messaging, social media influence, dietary behavior, cultural influences, generational patterns, qualitative research, semi-structured interviews, nutrition perceptions, traditional foods, health interventions, nutritional knowledge, family health history, dietary challenges, culturally relevant strategies

Awareness of Diet and Disease Among African American Women

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