The development of a feasible community-specific cardiovascular disease prevention program: triangulation of methods and sources.

Triangulation of methods, sources, and investigators can lead to a multidimensional understanding of a particular issue. In this study, the combination of qualitative and quantitative data collection methods, and information from community and coalition members resulted in the development of a tailored community-specific intervention. Three components were triangulated after analyzing each separately. A household survey of community members between the ages of 25 and 64 years was conducted to identify knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to cardiovascular disease and to assess risk factor levels. Focus group discussions were conducted with community members to describe facilitators and barriers to healthy lifestyles, as well as possible interventions. Natural group discussions with coalition members analyzed the relevance, feasibility, affordability, acceptability, and sustainability of specific intervention activities. Results from the different components were compared and contrasted. Areas of added information, validation, and contradiction were analyzed and guided the development of intervention activities.

Preoccupation with weight and disordered eating behaviors of entering students at a university in Lebanon.

OBJECTIVES: This research explores the prevalence of preoccupation with weight indicators and disordered eating behaviors among entering university students, and identifies factors associated with these indicators and behaviors. METHOD: Data was collected by means of a self-administered questionnaire. Comparisons were made by gender, mother's education, and body mass index (BMI). RESULTS: The final sample included 954 students. The indicators held most "often" included a desire to be thinner, and an awareness of caloric content. The behaviors engaged in "most" often included strenuous exercising, and avoiding particular foods. Both indicators and behaviors varied by gender and body mass index. DISCUSSION: The prevalence of indicators and behaviors is high. Body mass index is a critical variable to consider in the development of interventions. Further research should explore the context surrounding these indicators and behaviors.