African-American mothers' perceptions of cholesterol and its effects on their children.

This study examined African-American mothers' perceptions of cholesterol and its effects on their children. A random sample of middle- and upper-class women, Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority members, 26 to 53 years of age, responded to a 42-item questionnaire. Fifty-nine percent knew their cholesterol level and 13% knew the cholesterol level of their children. Two thirds of the parents believed that all elementary school children should have their cholesterol levels checked. A total of 79% had made lifestyle changes to reduce their child's risk of hypercholesterolemia, including 22% of this group who had purchased food supplements for this activity. Parents were more likely to receive most of their cholesterol information from the mass media, magazines (74%), newspapers (64%), and television (52%). The results of this study imply that these parents may be in need of further nutritional guidance from physicians to help them establish a safe and nutritious approach to maintaining normal cholesterol levels for their children.