Leyksha Pumarino
Fairbanks School of Public Health
Addressing Obesity and Health Disparities Among Low-Income Adults in Indiana
Addressing obesity at the policy level in Indiana
In order to better understand how public health professionals work with communities to address health inequalities and improve health using outreach, policy, and community initiatives, this artifact was made for PBHL-S315, Community Organizing for Health Promotion.
The article, "Addressing Obesity and Health Disparities Among Low-Income Adults in Indiana," studies the ways in which environmental and socioeconomic factors impact obesity in low income groups. It emphasizes attention to how the Hoosier Health and Wellness Alliance is addressing these issues through advocacy, education, and community based programs. Knowing how to connect academic concepts to practical community health promotion methods can be seen in this project.
​
​Obesity related health inequities are especially prominent in Indiana among low income people who live in underserved cities as well as rural areas. Because they have less access to reasonably priced, nutritious food, fewer opportunities for physical activity, and limited healthcare facilities, individuals living in these places are more likely to be obese. Environmental obstacles and economical stress increase these issues, making it harder to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Individuals from low income neighborhoods are more inclined to suffer from obesity related diseases such type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and several types of cancer. The challenge brings awareness to the ways that social and economic injustices create chronic health inequalities and highlights the significance of community based initiatives, like the Hoosier Health and Wellness Alliance, to improve affordable access to wellness education, healthcare, and nutrition.
Organization: The Hoosier Health and Wellness Alliance
Addressing obesity and health inequalities in Indiana's low income individuals is the purpose of the Hoosier Health and Wellness Alliance (HHWA). Through community based actions which provide access to nutritious food and promote improved lifestyles, such as farmers' markets, nutrition education, and wellness programs, the organization works to promote health equity.
Final Presentation: Addressing Obesity and Health Disparities Among Low-Income Adults in Indiana
Final Paper: Addressing Obesity and Health Disparities Among Low-Income Adults in Indiana
"A combination of socio economic, environmental, and traditional elements contributes to the obesity crisis in low income areas. In the past, policies have failed to correctly tackle the basic obstacles that limit low income individuals' access to nutritious food and medical care.... This has led to an increase of the obesity crisis in these neighborhoods due to persisting lack of investment in prevention care and overall health infrastructure."
What I learned
I choose this project because it allowed me the opportunity to learn about obesity among low income individuals, a significant public health concern that affects many Indiana communities. I recognize the amount of time and effort I spent to understand about the environmental and social elements that influence this problem. I am able to critically evaluate health inequalities and apply research findings to practical community solutions has improved as a result of this study. It also indicated how outreach and nonprofit organizations can make a significant difference in promoting health equity, which I are plan to integrate into my future public health work.