Impact of acculturation on dietary behaviors, health, and cancer risk among African immigrants in the United States
Abstract
Cancer is the second leading cause of mortality among non-Hispanic Blacks. Despite African immigrants’ unique challenges, there is a lack of data regarding their dietary behaviors and cancer risk in the United States. This systematic review examined this association with nine studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Results showed that African immigrants reported a high intake of calorie-dense foods and sedentary lifestyles that may increase their cancer risk post-migration. Barriers such as lack of resources to navigate nutrition programs and policies were elicited. Improving African immigrants’ access to culturally relevant nutrition programs will be crucial to reducing their cancer risk.
Primary Faculty Mentor Name
Trishnee Bhurosy
Status
Graduate
Student College
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Program/Major
Nutrition and Food Sciences
Primary Research Category
Social Science
Impact of acculturation on dietary behaviors, health, and cancer risk among African immigrants in the United States
Cancer is the second leading cause of mortality among non-Hispanic Blacks. Despite African immigrants’ unique challenges, there is a lack of data regarding their dietary behaviors and cancer risk in the United States. This systematic review examined this association with nine studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Results showed that African immigrants reported a high intake of calorie-dense foods and sedentary lifestyles that may increase their cancer risk post-migration. Barriers such as lack of resources to navigate nutrition programs and policies were elicited. Improving African immigrants’ access to culturally relevant nutrition programs will be crucial to reducing their cancer risk.
