Perception of Obesity in the Latino Population: Implications for Weight Loss Clinical Trials.

Ethnic minorities in the United States have a higher prevalence of obesity, with higher levels reported in Latinos/Hispanics. A qualitative study was done to understand perceptions of obesity and identify factors that may enhance the attractiveness of a behavioral weight-loss intervention in the Latino community. Weight loss trials designed to target the Latino/Hispanic population may benefit by considering the Latino/Hispanic perception of the problem, the barriers to weight loss, and for study participation that may be specific to this population.