Comparison of lifestyle behaviors and related factors between Asian American and white adults with prediabetes

This study compares lifestyle behaviors and related factors between Asian American and white adults with self‐reported prediabetes and identifies covariates/predictors for regular physical activity and adequate intake of fruits/vegetables. Using data from the United States of America Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 302 Asian Americans and 9558 white adults were analyzed. There were no significant differences for participating in regular physical activity or consumption of adequate fruits/vegetables between the two groups. Overall, 40% of the respondents engaged in regular physical activity, whereas less than 25% reported an adequate intake of fruits/vegetables. In the adjusted models, compared to white, Asian Americans were less likely to have impaired physical (OR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.36 0.80) or mental health (OR = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.21, 0.61), or cardiovascular diseases (OR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.41, 0.87). The covariates/predictors that relate to the behaviors differed between the groups. We conclude that interventions to increase physical activity and healthy eating for Asian American and white adults with prediabetes should address the different covariates/predictors for each group.