Many outside entities influence African Americans women, but one that stuck out to me the most was obesity. We need to increase awareness of obesity in America because it continues to be a problem that is not addressed properly. We are quick to go out and eat a meal not knowing the harmful contents it has.

Based on 2013 study from the American Psychological Association about 60 percent of black women are obese compared to 32 percent white women and 41 percent Latino women. I know black women are well educated in eating habits, but some of the time it is hard to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The results of not eating right is decreased expectancy and cardiovascular disease.

It is reported over the last twenty years more women are working out of the home. Therefore, it is more common women go out and eat versus having a home cooked meal. Junk food has become less expensive in American while fruits and vegetables are getting more expensive. African American women appear to be hit the hardest by this epidemic regardless of social economic status. Childbearing also proved to be a factor in weight gain. Women have children young  and some overweight at the time of pregnancy. They have a higher prevalence of obesity in comparison to white or other races.

A recent article from American Journal of Public Health proves that African American women use high calorie comfort food as a result from work related stress, a percentage due to sexism in the community.

There are several problems in race that elevates some of the obesity problems. Many for example the Sisters Together, Move More Eat Better. Those are national programs that bring African American women together to solve obesity problems. Also, promoting healthier eating around the black community and at schools will decrease the chances of obesity.