Exploratory study of the clinical utility of the Pizzi Healthy Weight Management Assessment (PHWMA) among Burmese High School students

Abstract

OBJECTIVE. Immigrant youth in the United States are at greater risk for weight management problems than non-Hispanic White youth. We used the Pizzi Healthy Weight Management Assessment (PHWMA) to capture data on health perceptions and weight management behaviors among adolescent Burmese refugees. METHOD. We conducted a retrospective descriptive study of 20 Burmese refugee high school students. RESULTS. The results captured an understanding of health perceptions and weight management behaviors of the program participants. The PHWMA was found to be a valid and reliable tool for use by occupational therapy practitioners. CONCLUSION. Findings from this study can inform program development and evaluation in outreach efforts to enhance minority youths' health and well-being.