Prev Chronic Dis

Introduction We explored perceptions of and responses to multiple health risks among people living in poverty in the southern United States. Methods We conducted 12 focus groups and interviewed 66 focus group participants in 3 southern US cities (Birmingham, Alabama; Jackson, Mississippi; and Columbia, South Carolina). Thematic analysis was used to identify major themes. Results Study participants worried most about chronic health conditions and the costs to treat those conditions. Feelings of threat were influenced by family health history and race. Barriers to health-protective behaviors included time, work, family, apathy, and low response efficacy. Physical activity and checking blood pressure were the health-protective behaviors in which participants most often engaged. Conclusion Our results will be useful for the development of interventions that target the southern poor. Intervention messages should address the barriers that poor people face when attempting to engage in health-protective behaviors and should help strengthen people's confidence in their ability to change their behaviors.

21159223

PMC3044022

Journal Article

5P01CD000242-03/CD/ODCDC CDC HHS/United States

Southeastern United States

Preventing Chronic Disease