African American

Trends in Severe Obesity Among 23 Million U.S. Children Aged 2–4 Years Who Enrolled in WIC — United States, 2000–2014

Abstract Importance: Severe obesity in childhood is associated with negative health consequences. A previous study examined trends in severe obesity among preschool-aged children in low-income families during 1998 to 2010. […]

Eating Frequency and the Role of Snacking on Body Weight of WIC Preschool Children

Abstract The objective of this study was to understand the influence of eating episodes and snack quality on body weight of children ages 3-4.9 years participating in the Broward County […]

Racial/Ethnic Differences in the Effectiveness of a Multisector Childhood Obesity Prevention Intervention

Abstract Objectives: To investigate racial/ethnic and language differences in the effectiveness of the Massachusetts Childhood Obesity Research Demonstration (MA-CORD) study among children aged 2 to 4 years enrolled in the […]

Integrating Obstetrical Care and WIC Nutritional Services to Address Maternal Obesity and Postpartum Weight Retention

Abstract Objective: This pilot study evaluated a cost neutral, integrated Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women Infants and Children (WIC) and obstetrical service model designed to prevent postpartum weight retention […]

Racial Differences in Breastfeeding Initiation Among Participants in a Midwestern Public Health District

Abstract Purpose: Although variations in breastfeeding initiation are well documented, the contributing role of maternal race remains poorly understood, especially among the multiracial—two or more races—population. The purpose of this study […]

Socio-Ecological Barriers to Dry Grain Pulse Consumption among Low-Income Women: A Mixed Methods Approach

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine the socio-ecological influences on dry grain pulse consumption (beans, peas, lentils, chickpeas) among low-socioeconomic women in Iowa. Seven focus groups were […]

The Impact of Prenatal WIC Participation on Infant Mortality and Racial Disparities

This study assessed the impact of WIC services on improving birth outcomes and reducing racial disparities. Results showed that the infant mortality rate (IMR) was lower for WIC participants than for non-WIC participants. For African Americans, the IMR of WIC participants was much lower than that of non-WIC participants. For whites, IMR and preterm birth rates were not improved by WIC participation.

Racial Differences in Birth Outcomes and Costs in Relation to Prenatal WIC Participation

This study analyzed birth outcomes and the cost of infant hospitalization at delivery for black and non-black Medicaid clients, in relation to their level of prenatal participation in the WIC Program. Based on the results, prenatal WIC participation was associated with lower Medicaid costs and better birth outcomes, particularly for blacks.

Choices Made by Low-Income Women Provided with an Economic Supplement for Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Purchase

This study investigated whether women who received supplemental financial support specifically for the purchase of fresh fruits and vegetables would exhibit high uptake of the supplement. The researchers also recorded what those individuals would choose to purchase. The authors concluded that women used the supplement provided almost fully and that they purchased a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables for their families. No particular barriers arose to redemption of the vouchers by either the participants or retail vendors.

WIC Participation and Attenuation of Stress-Related Child Health Risks of Household Food Insecurity and Caregiver Depressive Symptoms

This study examines the relationship among WIC participation, family stressors, and health risks. researchers found that participating in the WIC Program attenuated, but did not eliminate, child health risks associated with family stressors.