Healthcare Providers’ Perceptions of the Factors Contributing to Infant Obesity in a Low-Income Mexican American Community.

PURPOSE. To examine healthcare professionals’ perceptions of Mexican American infant feeding practices and obesity. DESIGN AND METHODS. Five provider focus groups (n  = 38 providers) were conducted in two agencies in the Denver area on the topic of contributors to childhood obesity in the Mexican American community. RESULTS. Healthcare providers believe obesity in Mexican American infants is related to: (a) a chubby baby being a healthy baby, (b) introducing complementary foods early, (c) extended family members’ infant feeding practices, (d) offering infants high-calorie foods, and (e) prolonged bottle feeding and sweet beverages. Providers reported ambivalence regarding their role in addressing infant obesity. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Healthcare providers working with Mexican American families should deliver consistent, culturally specified messages regarding infant feeding and activity practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]