Associations Between the Multidimensional Body Image Constructs and Self-Rated Health among African American Adults in the Southeastern United States: A Preliminary Study.

BACKGROUND

This pilot study examined sex differences in body image constructs among African American (AAs) adults and their association with self-rated health (SRH).

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted, where participants were recruited through advertisements and snowball sampling techniques. A battery of questionnaires measured demographic data, SRH, and body image constructs. Percent body fat and body mass index were collected using the BOD POD(R). Descriptive statistics, parametric tests, binary logistics, and linear regressions were performed with regression models adjusted for age, income, BMI, and education.

RESULTS

The majority (n = 54, 75.00%) of participants rated their health as good (40.28%) or very good/excellent (34.72%). Significant positive associations were observed between self-rated health, appearance evaluation, and appearance satisfaction. In univariate and multivariable models, for a one-unit increase in appearance evaluation score, participants had 3.85-fold (p = 0.003) and 3.71-fold (p = 0.037) odds of rating their health as good/excellent compared to rating their health as poor/fair, respectively. A significant negative association was observed between self-rated health and self-classified weight.

CONCLUSION

Some aspects of body image constructs differed among African American males and females. Understanding these differences can help health professionals develop targeted interventions to promote positive health behaviors within this population. Mixed method studies are recommended to explore these differences further.