An Anthropological Approach to the Study of Food and Health in an Indigenous Population

Abstract

This study of food and health among Aboriginal Australians 50 years old and over in Western Australia is part of a wider cross-cultural study of food habits and health in later life. It was difficult to use a questionnaire approach with this community because of questions that required an understanding of non-Aboriginal concepts. More valid information was obtained by interviewing key informants and groups of selected elderly Aboriginals, which allowed cross-checking or triangulation to reconstruct the typical diet of the elderly. The quantitative food frequency questionnaire was modified, using rapid assessment procedures (RAP), for use with key informants and at the group level, so as to build a consensus statement about group food-intake patterns. Approximate quantities of foods consumed were judged by observation, weighing of food, and information from key informants. Food quality and quantity of consumption were found to be closely connected to the weekly payment of the pension. Apparent total energy intake was about 4,000 kcal per day, of which sugar, fatty beef, and white flour together provided more than 50%. Dairy products, fruit, vegetables, and whole-grain cereals were eaten in small quantities and not every day. Medical records on 48 elderly subjects indicated a high prevalence of diabetes (27%), heart disease (21 %), hypertension (44%), and obesity (BMI > 30) (14%). Using RAP methodology, it was possible in a short period to ascertain the major nutritional problems and advice that should be provided by nutrition-education programmes.