Obesity and diabetes in African American women.

Obesity has reached near epidemic proportions in the United States. The prevalence of obesity is high among African Americans, particularly African American women. The risk of diabetes is significantly related to obesity. The risks of morbidity and mortality associated with diabetes poses serious problems for the African American community. It is vital that nurses be at the forefront in initiating research studies, developing strategies for use in practice and providing education to the public about the potentially deadly consequences of obesity.