Acculturation, Dietary Behaviors and Cancer Risk Perspectives of African Immigrant Communities in Vermont
Abraham, Florence
Abraham, Florence
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Abstract
Background: African immigrants in Vermont experience several acculturation challenges, which may limit their ability to maintain traditional healthy diets and increase cancer risk. Objective: This study explored dietary changes among African immigrants and their perceived barriers to eating healthy post migration; and examined their perspectives on causes of cancer, the role that nutrition plays in reducing cancer risk, and their knowledge of available supports. Methods: Using a qualitative research design, 12 cancer-free African immigrants were recruited through purposive sampling and participated in in-depth interviews. Participants immigrated from Benin, Burundi, Cameroon, Congo, Ghana, Morocco, Nigeria, Somalia, Tanzania and Zimbabwe. Results: While most participants intended to maintain their traditional diets, they struggled to access healthy cultural foods due to factors such as proximity to cultural markets, affordability, and time. Cancer was perceived to be caused by processed and fried food consumption, non-organic products, and spiritual forces. Although most participants were college-educated, they had limited knowledge on the connection between nutrition and cancer and were not aware of resources available for diet- related cancer prevention. Conclusion: This study highlights the need for culturally tailored nutrition and cancer education and programs that will improve access to culturally relevant, affordable, and accessible foods for African immigrants in Vermont.
Description
Date
01/01/2026
Student Status
Graduate Student
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Poster
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Program/Major
Nutrition and Food Sciences
College/School
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
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Social Science