Date of Completion

Spring 5-1-2025

Thesis Advisor(s)

Loneke T. Blackman Carr

Honors Major

Nutritional Sciences

Disciplines

Behavioral Medicine | Community Health | Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition | Health Psychology | Health Services Research | Maternal and Child Health | Medicine and Health Sciences | Preventive Medicine | Public Health | Women's Health

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease is a leading contributor to maternal mortality, which remains disproportionately high among Black women. Obesity and postpartum weight retention exacerbate cardiovascular disease risk and increase the likelihood of complications in future pregnancies. Weight loss during the postpartum period may reduce long-term chronic health risks and mortality for Black women. This systematic review aimed to understand the weight-related health needs of Black postpartum women by evaluating behavioral weight loss interventions within the first year after childbirth. A comprehensive search of the PubMed database identified 3 randomized controlled trials that met inclusion criteria. These studies evaluated home-based programs, mobile health applications, and group-based interventions promoting dietary changes, physical activity, and behavioral support. While the interventions showed promising trends in reducing postpartum weight retention and obesity, none achieved the clinically significant target of 5–10% weight loss from baseline. Greater cultural tailoring and participant engagement were linked to improved outcomes. However, structural challenges such as limited access to care and socioeconomic inequities continue to hinder progress. These findings highlight the need for culturally responsive behavioral interventions that can be widely implemented to support the postpartum health of Black women. Future research should focus on expanding sample sizes and integrating community-driven strategies to enhance both effectiveness and long-term sustainability.

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