Hartman, Terryl (author), Kushi, Lawrence H. (author), McCarthy, Pamela (author), Schuster, Ellen (author), and Division of Epidemiology, University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis, MN
Format:
Conference paper
Publication Date:
1994
Published:
USA
Location:
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 97 Document Number: C07889
James F. Evans Collection, Ham, Mimeographed, 1994. 1 p. Presented at the Society for Nutrition Education, Portland, OR, July 16-20, 1994., The more educated, higher income segment of the US population has experienced a marked decline in cardiovascular disease (CVD) rates. This decline has been more limited for those with a lower socioeconomic status, lower occupational status, lower educational attainment, or those who are members of disadvantaged minority groups. One of the reasons for this difference may be the need for appropriate educational materials or programs for CVD prevention for these segments of the population. A project to develop and evaluate a nutrition education program for women with limited literacy skills is aimed at addressing his need. We conducted 18 focus groups with the target population to determine their interests and needs. From their responses, we developed the "Help Yourself to Health" program, an innovative 9-session program that delivers simple, practical, and relevant behavioral nutritional messages in fun and entertaining ways. Sessions feature attention-getting activities and unique incentives like measuring spoons, magnets, and cookbooks. All sessions are pamphlet-free. The program is currently being evaluated in three urban Minnesota counties with the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program. Since the mean literacy level in the U.S. is at or below the eighth grade reading level, nutritionists working with clients in any area will find the philosophy, activities, and materials of this program thought-provoking and useful.
