Overweight and Obesity, Weight Perception, and Weight Management Practices Among Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program–Education (SNAP-Ed) Participants in Georgia: A Needs Assessment

Abstract

ObjectiveExamine associations among weight status, weight perception, and weight management practices of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program–Education (SNAP-Ed) participants in Georgia. MethodsSelf-reported weight, height, and weight-related practices were assessed and analyzed in 270 SNAP-Ed participants. ResultsAlmost three quarters of the sample self-reported overweight or obesity. Among overweight and obese subjects, 39% and 69%, respectively, accurately perceived themselves as overweight. More than half of the sample desired weight loss and 44% had attempted weight loss in the past year. Overweight/obese subjects who accurately perceived their weight were more likely to desire and to have attempted weight loss than those who under-perceived their weight. Approximately 58% of all subjects who had attempted to lose weight reported use of both methods suggested for weight loss: exercise and dietary changes. Conclusions and ImplicationsThe high prevalence of self-reported overweight/obesity combined with a desire to lose weight among the study sample demonstrated the necessity to develop SNAP-Ed curricula emphasizing weight management.