Perceived factors influencing health-related behaviors among Hmong American youth aged 14−25 years in the Sacramento, California Region

While obesity, type-2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases have risen among the Hmong population, limited research has investigated their health and nutritional status. This study examined the perceived factors influencing health-related behaviors among Hmong American youth, aged 14 to 25 years. Eight focus groups were conducted (n=44). More than half of the youth were either overweight or obese. Four themes were identified from focus group discussions: 1) dietary choices, 2) gender roles, 3) physical activity, and 4) smoking and alcohol. Results suggested that while youth perceived Hmong foods as healthier than American foods, many expressed concerns about losing cultural norms related to traditional diets and activity as they adopted the average American diet and became more sedentary. Healthier foods were associated with higher costs, longer preparation times, and less taste and flavor, and therefore, youth reported opting for more convenient and cheaper fast foods. Gender roles appeared to affect food acquisition, meal planning, and cooking practices. Youth emphasized that their parents influenced their perceptions of health-related behaviors; they also shared that parents lacked adequate knowledge about how dietary choices, physical activity, and substance use could impact health outcomes. Alcohol and smoking were noted as significant concerns, and such behaviors were influenced by the cultural normalization of underage drinking and smoking in the community. Findings suggest that nutrition and health-related interventions for Hmong youth would benefit from involving parents and elders while encouraging family- and community driven activities.