Health Beliefs About Tobacco With Betel Nut Use Among Adults in Yap, Micronesia.

Tobacco use is high among Pacific Islanders in general and little tobacco research has been done in Yap, Micronesia. This study aimed to explore perceptions of tobacco use coupled with chewing of betel (areca) nut among adults in Yap using self-administered questionnaires based on the health belief model. A Likert scale (ranging from strongly disagree to strongly agree or very unlikely to very likely) was used to measure susceptibility, severity, benefits, barriers, cues to action, and self-efficacy among individuals aged 18 and older. Older adults felt quitting tobacco or betel nut use would be significantly more difficult because of social reasons and withdrawal problems. Most participants felt susceptible to tobacco-related diseases. These findings possibly indicate a receptive attitude toward any future tobacco use prevention and intervention program. Older Yapese population would need to be especially targeted. Health promotion programs should target smoking behaviors and risk reduction.

Gender differences in perceptions of weight and body image and comparison to recommended weight among adult Bermudians.

The objective of this study was to determine adult Bermudians' perceptions of ideal weight, overweight, and body image and to decide if a discrepancy exists between their perceptions and World Health Organization standards. A cross-sectional survey of body weight perceptions was administered to 462 men (n = 207) and women (n = 255), 18-65 years of age and various body weights, living on the Island of Bermuda. Additionally, measurement of height, and weight was collected. There was a significant difference in mean current body mass index (BMI) between men (M = 28.6, SD = 5.82), and women (M = 30.1, SD = 6.80) (p < .05). Significant gender differences were evident in mean self-perceived BMI, ideal BMI, and perceived body image. The data presented have important implications for understanding perceptions, knowledge, and beliefs concerning body weight and body image. Public health programs must stress to adults the correct definition of overweight and obesity acceptable by medical standards.