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MANUSCRIPT 

High Fructose Corn Syrup’s Role in Obesity 

Among Hispanic Adolescent Females in the 

Texas-Mexico Border 
 

Marisol Acosta1, Anna Elizondo1,2, Allyson Gutierrez1,3, Joelen Mendoza1,4, Gia Rico1,5, Alexia 

Rodriguez1,6, Belinda Sustaita1,7, Arianna Vela1,2, Ximena Galaviz1,4 

 
1DHR Health High School and Community Outreach  
2 San Isidro High School 
3 Lamar Academy 
4 PSJA Early College High School  
5 Sharyland High School  
6  Rio Hondo High School  
7 La Joya High School 

 

Received: July 12, 2024  

Accepted for publication: January 6, 2025  

Published:  January 7, 2025

Introduction 

This literature review examines the complex relationship between high-fructose corn syrup 

(HFCS) consumption, obesity, and its disproportionate impact on Hispanic adolescent females in 

the Texas-Mexico border region. The rising obesity rates in this demographic require a thorough 

investigation into contributing factors, focusing on HFCS, a prevalent sweetener in modern diets. 

This review will explore HFCS prevalence in Hispanic adolescents' diets, the significance of 

studying this population in the Texas-Mexico border region, and the established link between 

HFCS consumption and obesity, especially within vulnerable populations. We will summarize 

the mechanisms linking HFCS to obesity, the influence of socioeconomic factors, and the 

implications for interventions and public health. 

 

Background on Obesity in Hispanic Adolescents  

 

Obesity among adolescents is a significant public health concern, with Hispanic youth, 

particularly females, experiencing disproportionately high rates, especially in regions like the 

Texas-Mexico border. Understanding this disparity requires examining epidemiological data and 

the sociocultural context. 

 

  



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Prevalence of Obesity  

 

Data on obesity statistics for Hispanic adolescent females in the Texas-Mexico border region are 

limited. However, studies show elevated obesity risk within the broader Hispanic adolescent 

population in the US and Texas. Nationally, 17.1% of 2–19-year-olds are obese [1], a figure 

likely higher for Hispanic adolescents [2]. A study in El Paso County, Texas (predominantly 

Mexican-origin Hispanic, 83%) found a positive association between Hispanic ethnic 

concentration and obesity prevalence [3]. This lack of specific data on Hispanic adolescent 

females in this border region highlights a significant research gap. 

 

Socioeconomic Factors  

 

Socioeconomic factors significantly contribute to obesity in this population. Limited healthcare 

access, including delayed diagnosis and treatment of obesity-related conditions, is worsened by 

socioeconomic inequities like lack of health insurance and insufficient health education [3]. 

Lower median incomes are linked to higher obesity prevalence, while higher education levels 

demonstrate a protective effect [3]. Food insecurity, common in low-income households, leads to 

reliance on less nutritious, energy-dense foods, often cheaper and more readily available [4]. 

This creates a cycle of disadvantage, where limited resources increase obesity risk and associated 

health problems. A study on family-based obesity prevention interventions among Hispanic 

youth found that younger children from low socioeconomic backgrounds were well-represented 

[5], indicating a strong correlation between socioeconomic status and obesity risk. 

 

Cultural and Environmental Factors  

 

Cultural and environmental factors also impact dietary habits and obesity rates. The traditional 

Hispanic diet, while historically featuring fresh produce, has changed with increased exposure to 

processed foods and sugar-sweetened beverages [6]. The availability and affordability of these 

less healthy options, combined with changing cultural norms and lifestyles, contribute to 

increased caloric intake and reduced physical activity [4]. High consumption of sugar-sweetened 

beverages, a major source of added sugars [1], is particularly concerning, as it's linked to weight 

gain [1], [7]. A study examining the relationship between acculturation and dietary patterns 

showed that sugar intake significantly exceeded recommendations across all adolescent cultural 

categories [6], suggesting that cultural shifts may not always lead to healthier dietary choices. 

 

Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior  

 

Physical inactivity is a significant contributing factor to obesity, particularly along the Texas-

Mexico border [8]. Limited access to safe spaces for physical activity, coupled with increased 

screen time and sedentary behaviors [9], contribute to the problem. Interventions promoting 



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physical activity have shown mixed results [8]. A family-based intervention aimed at reducing 

screen-based sedentary behavior showed some success in reducing sedentary behavior in 

overweight and obese youth but not in severely obese youth [9]. A study found that most caloric, 

carbohydrate, and added sugar intake in a cohort of Hispanic adolescents with obesity occurred 

between 11:00 am and 7:00 pm [10], suggesting that interventions targeting specific eating 

periods may be beneficial. 

 

Role of High-Fructose Corn Syrup  

 

While the exact contribution of HFCS to obesity among Hispanic adolescent females in the 

Texas-Mexico border region isn't explicitly addressed in all provided documents, the extensive 

research linking HFCS consumption to weight gain warrants consideration. HFCS consumption 

has significantly increased in the United States in recent decades [12], coinciding with a rise in 

obesity rates [12]. Studies have shown that HFCS, particularly in beverages, may play a role in 

the obesity epidemic [12], [13]. However, the relationship between HFCS and obesity is complex 

and not fully understood [14], [13], with some studies showing mixed results or null effects [13]. 

The potential metabolic effects of HFCS, such as its impact on de novo lipogenesis, insulin 

resistance, and triglyceride levels [15], [16], are relevant to understanding obesity development. 

Further research is needed to determine the specific role of HFCS in the context of Hispanic 

adolescent females in the Texas-Mexico border region, considering the interplay with other 

socioeconomic, cultural, and environmental factors. 

 

Mechanisms Linking HFCS to Obesity  

 

This section explores the biological mechanisms through which HFCS may contribute to obesity, 

focusing on its impact on metabolism and weight gain, particularly in Hispanic adolescent 

females in the Texas-Mexico border region. The research on HFCS and obesity is extensive, but 

its specific impact on this demographic requires careful consideration of cultural factors and 

socioeconomic influences. 

 

Insulin Resistance and Impaired Glucose Homeostasis 

 

One primary mechanism linking HFCS consumption to obesity is its potential to induce insulin 

resistance. Insulin regulates blood glucose levels and glucose uptake. Impaired insulin action 

leads to hyperglycemia and fat storage. Studies show that fructose, a major component of HFCS, 

may be particularly implicated[13], [14]. Fructose metabolism bypasses primary regulatory steps 

of glucose metabolism, resulting in less glucose-mediated insulin secretion and a greater 

likelihood of hepatic de novo lipogenesis [13]. This increased lipogenesis contributes to elevated 

triglyceride levels and ectopic fat deposition, further contributing to insulin resistance and 

metabolic dysfunction [16]. Chronic elevation of blood glucose and insulin levels associated 



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with insulin resistance promotes weight gain and obesity development [13]. The impact of this 

mechanism may be heightened in Hispanic adolescents due to genetic predispositions or other 

underlying health conditions [2], [15]. 

 

Increased Appetite and Reduced Satiety 

 

HFCS may influence obesity through its impact on appetite regulation. Fructose has a limited 

effect on satiety hormones, such as leptin and ghrelin [17]. Fructose does not effectively suppress 

ghrelin release, a hormone that stimulates appetite [17]. This lack of satiety signaling may lead to 

increased food intake and positive energy balance, a major driver of weight gain [17]. The high 

palatability of HFCS-sweetened beverages may lead to increased consumption [7]. The 

combination of reduced satiety and increased consumption of palatable, HFCS-containing foods 

and beverages can create a cycle of overeating and weight gain, particularly in adolescents [7]. 

Cultural factors within the Hispanic community may also influence the consumption of HFCS-

sweetened products [6]. 

 

Liver Metabolism and Non-Alcoholic Liver Disease (NAFLD)  

 

Excessive fructose intake can overwhelm the liver's metabolic capacity, leading to increased de 

novo lipogenesis and triglyceride accumulation in the liver, a hallmark of NAFLD [13], [16]. 

NAFLD is strongly associated with obesity and insulin resistance, creating a vicious cycle that 

exacerbates weight gain [18]. Studies suggest that HFCS may contribute to NAFLD 

development more significantly than sucrose [18]. The prevalence of NAFLD among Hispanic 

adolescents is a concern requiring further study. 

 

Impact of HFCS on Gut Microbiota  

 

HFCS consumption can alter the composition and function of the gut microbiota [18], potentially 

promoting an environment that favors increased energy harvest and fat storage. These changes 

may be mediated through alterations in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, impacting 

energy metabolism and gut barrier function [18]. The impact of HFCS on the gut microbiota may 

vary depending on individual factors, including genetics and pre-existing gut microbial 

composition. This variation is especially relevant when considering the diverse genetic 

backgrounds and potential dietary habits within the Hispanic population [18]. 

 

Neurobiological Effects and Cognitive Function 

 

Some research suggests that HFCS consumption may impact cognitive function, indirectly 

influencing eating behaviors. Studies in animal models have indicated that HFCS consumption 

can negatively affect hippocampal-dependent spatial learning and memory [19], a brain region 



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involved in learning, memory, and reward processing. These findings suggest a potential link 

between HFCS consumption, altered brain function, and potentially impulsive food choices, 

though further research is required to fully understand this complex relationship in humans, 

especially in the context of Hispanic adolescent females [19]. 

 

Limitations and Future Research Directions  

 

While evidence linking HFCS consumption to obesity is substantial, limitations exist. Many 

studies rely on self-reported dietary intake data, which may be inaccurate [1]. Furthermore, 

research often focuses on the effects of HFCS in isolation without considering the complex 

interplay of genetic, environmental, and socioeconomic factors that influence obesity risk [20]. 

Future research needs to employ more rigorous methodologies, including objective measures of 

HFCS intake and comprehensive assessments of relevant confounding variables within specific 

populations, such as Hispanic adolescent females in the Texas-Mexico border region [20]. 

Studies should also investigate the potential interactions between HFCS consumption and other 

lifestyle factors, such as physical activity and sleep patterns [21], to better understand the overall 

contribution of HFCS to obesity in this vulnerable population. 

 

Influence of Socioeconomic Factors 

 

The high rates of obesity among Hispanic adolescent females along the Texas-Mexico border 

cannot be understood without considering socioeconomic factors. These factors create 

environmental, behavioral, and access-related challenges significantly impacting HFCS 

consumption and obesity development. 

 

Socioeconomic Disparities and Obesity Rates  

 

Research highlights the strong correlation between socioeconomic status (SES) and obesity 

prevalence, including among Hispanic adolescents [2], [22], [3]. Lower income levels are 

consistently associated with higher obesity rates [22]. Families with limited resources often rely 

on less expensive, energy-dense foods high in added sugars, including HFCS-sweetened 

beverages and processed foods [23], [15]. These foods provide more calories for less cost. 

Access to healthy, fresh produce is often limited in lower-income neighborhoods, leading to 

reliance on less nutritious options frequently containing HFCS [20]. 

 

The lack of access to resources that promote healthy lifestyles also plays a role. Low-income 

families may lack access to safe places for physical activity or have transportation limitations 

restricting access to grocery stores offering healthier food choices [20]. Financial insecurity and 

limited access to resources can negatively impact health behaviors. Chronic stress, linked to 



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increased cortisol levels, promotes weight gain and hinders weight loss efforts [24]. This 

exacerbates the challenges faced by low-income families. 

 

The impact of these disparities is pronounced among Hispanic adolescents along the Texas-

Mexico border. This region has significant socioeconomic inequalities, with high poverty rates 

and limited access to healthcare and healthy food options [3]. These inequalities are compounded 

by cultural factors and acculturation processes. Studies have shown that higher levels of 

assimilation into US culture are associated with decreased consumption of traditional, fiber-rich 

foods and increased intake of processed foods and sugary drinks, including those containing 

HFCS [25]. This shift in dietary patterns contributes to higher obesity rates [25]. Access to 

culturally appropriate healthcare and health education is often limited, hindering the ability of 

Hispanic families to address health issues like obesity effectively [3]. 

 

Accessibility of HFCS-Sweetened Products  

 

The accessibility of HFCS-sweetened products is another critical socioeconomic factor. Low-

income neighborhoods often have more convenience stores and fast-food restaurants, major 

sources of HFCS-sweetened beverages and processed foods [20]. These establishments are often 

in areas with limited access to supermarkets offering healthier options, creating a food 

environment that encourages consumption of less nutritious products [20]. 

 

Aggressive marketing strategies targeting low-income communities promote HFCS-sweetened 

products that are affordable and appealing to young people [23]. These campaigns often exploit 

cultural values and preferences, reinforcing consumption among Hispanic adolescents and their 

families [23]. The lack of regulation regarding food advertising in low-income areas exacerbates 

the problem, creating a food environment that promotes unhealthy eating habits [23]. 

 

The cumulative effect is that HFCS-sweetened products are readily available, heavily promoted, 

and often the most affordable option for low-income families [20]. This creates a substantial 

barrier to healthy eating and contributes significantly to higher obesity rates in these 

communities. 

 

Interventions and Public Health Implications  

 

This section examines interventions aimed at reducing HFCS consumption and preventing 

obesity, focusing on Hispanic populations, particularly adolescent females in the Texas-Mexico 

border region. The effectiveness of these interventions varies, highlighting the complexity of 

addressing obesity within specific cultural and socioeconomic contexts. 

 



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Many interventions target improvements in physical activity [8], [5] and fruit and vegetable 

intake [5] through nutrition education, cooking demonstrations, and tastings [5]. However, a 

family-based intervention targeting obesity-related outcomes in Hispanic adolescents showed no 

significant intervention effects for adolescents' primary outcomes [2].While interventions have  

improved parents' intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, added sugar, and sweetened beverages, and 

decreased parents' BMI, these effects weren't sustained long-term [2]. This highlights the need for 

sustained interventions and potentially booster sessions or increased nutritional information to 

achieve lasting effects on both parents and adolescents [2]. 

 

Another study evaluated self-monitored pedometer use among Hispanic university students [8]. 

While the intervention motivated students to reach a 10,000-step count, it didn't significantly 

improve outcome expectations or address barriers to exercise [8]. This suggests that simply 

monitoring activity levels may not be sufficient to address the complex factors contributing to 

obesity in this population. The study also underscores the need for interventions that address 

both behavioral and environmental factors [8]. 

 

Research indicates that interventions need to be culturally adapted [5] and acknowledge social 

determinants of health (SDoH) [5], such as income level, insurance status, and adverse childhood 

experiences [22], to be effective. A study examining the impact of acculturation on cancer 

prevention dietary patterns among Hispanic families found that participants didn't meet healthy 

recommendations for cancer prevention regardless of their acculturation and nativity status [6]. 

This emphasizes the need for interventions that go beyond simply providing nutritional 

information and address the broader social and cultural contexts that influence dietary choices 

[6]. The study also showed significant differences in daily dietary intake by acculturation 

category and nativity status [6], highlighting the importance of tailoring interventions to specific 

subgroups within the Hispanic population [6]. 

 

A systematic review and meta-analysis focusing on the effectiveness of healthy lifestyle 

interventions in obese pediatric patients found that interventions of long duration (at least one 

year) with an intensive initial phase are needed to produce significant early weight loss in 

adolescents [26]. The review also highlighted the underrepresentation of Hispanics in obesity 

intervention studies, emphasizing the need for more research tailored specifically to this 

population [26]. The meta-analysis concluded that lifestyle modifications yielded good outcomes 

[26], reinforcing the importance of comprehensive interventions that address multiple lifestyle 

factors [26]. However, the review also acknowledged the limited efficacy, high attrition rates, 

and waning participant engagement observed in many previous interventions [26], indicating the 

necessity of developing more engaging and sustainable approaches [26]. 

 

The impact of acculturation on dietary intake among Hispanic youth needs further investigation. 

One study found a positive association between the proportion of the Hispanic population in a 

neighborhood and fiber intake and an inverse association with added and total sugar intake [25]. 



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However, this protective effect was weaker among youth with higher levels of assimilation [25], 

suggesting that acculturation may influence dietary choices and the effectiveness of interventions 

[25]. 

 

Public health policies play a crucial role in addressing obesity, but their effectiveness varies. 

Policies focusing on reducing soda consumption could contribute to reversing increasing 

overweight and obesity problems [7]. However, the effectiveness of such policies depends on 

several factors, including their design, implementation, and enforcement. For example, the 

impact of sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) taxes on consumption and obesity remains a subject 

of ongoing debate [7], with some studies showing modest reductions in consumption [7] while 

others find minimal effects [7]. 

 

Additionally, policies aimed at improving access to healthy foods and promoting physical 

activity are crucial. The availability of convenient stores and healthy food options within a 

neighborhood can influence dietary choices [20], while policies promoting physical activity in 

schools and communities can encourage healthier lifestyles [8]. However, the effectiveness of 

these policies can be influenced by socioeconomic factors and disparities in access to resources 

[20], [22]. For instance, low-income neighborhoods often lack access to healthy food options and 

safe spaces for physical activity [20], highlighting the importance of addressing these 

inequalities through policy interventions [20]. 

 

Furthermore, educational campaigns aimed at raising awareness of the health risks associated 

with HFCS consumption and promoting healthier dietary choices are essential. However, the 

effectiveness of these campaigns depends on their design, targeting, and messaging. Studies have 

shown that providing adolescents with nutrition knowledge and encouraging them to use 

nutrition labels is associated with healthier dietary behaviors [27]. This suggests that educational 

interventions should focus on empowering individuals to make informed choices, rather than 

simply providing information [27]. However, even with such interventions, challenges remain, as 

highlighted by the fact that adolescents who do not use nutrition labels have significantly greater 

odds of consuming sugary beverages [27]. 

 

The role of family mealtime communication in promoting healthy eating habits among Hispanic 

adolescents should not be overlooked [11]. Studies have shown that mealtime communication is 

associated with fruit and vegetable consumption in boys and physical activity in girls, with 

single-parent households also impacting dietary consumption [11]. Therefore, policies that 

support and strengthen family structures and promote positive mealtime interactions can play a 

vital role in promoting healthy eating habits [11]. 

 

Finally, digital health interventions offer a promising approach for reaching and engaging 

Hispanic adolescents in obesity prevention and management [28]. However, many studies 



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targeting adolescent obesity using digital strategies have not adequately addressed digital health 

equity criteria, and many have failed to achieve significant BMI reductions [28]. This highlights 

the need for interventions that are culturally relevant and address the specific needs and 

challenges of the target population [28]. Furthermore, improved reporting of digital health equity 

criteria is essential to ensure that these interventions are equitable and effective in reducing 

health disparities [28]. 

 

Conclusion and Future Directions 

 

Addressing the high prevalence of obesity among Hispanic adolescent females in the Texas-

Mexico border region requires a multi-faceted approach involving comprehensive interventions, 

effective public health policies, and culturally sensitive strategies. While some interventions 

have shown promise, the limited long-term success of many interventions and the significant 

disparities in health outcomes highlight the need for further research and innovative approaches. 

Future research should focus on developing and evaluating interventions that address the 

complex interplay of biological, behavioral, social, and environmental factors that contribute to 

obesity in this population. This includes rigorously testing theoretical constructs, family 

processes, and social determinants of health that influence program participation and health 

behaviors [5]. Furthermore, research should prioritize the inclusion of Hispanic adolescents in 

the design and implementation of interventions to ensure cultural relevance and effectiveness 

[26], [21]. A stronger emphasis on long-term, intensive interventions, culturally adapted 

strategies, and addressing socioeconomic factors will be crucial in achieving meaningful and 

lasting reductions in obesity rates among this vulnerable population. Further exploration into the 

specific mechanisms by which HFCS contributes to obesity in this group is also warranted, 

potentially using biomarkers to assess habitual added sugar intake [1]. 

 

The reviewed studies consistently demonstrate a high prevalence of obesity among Hispanic 

adolescents in the United States, particularly along the Texas-Mexico border [3], [8]. This 

elevated risk is linked to various factors including socioeconomic disparities, limited access to 

healthcare, and insufficient health education [3]. The role of HFCS consumption, a significant 

component of the diet in this population [12], [15], remains a complex and debated issue. 

 

Several studies indicate a correlation between increased consumption of sugar-sweetened 

beverages (SSBs), often containing HFCS, and a higher risk of obesity in adolescents [7], [16], 

[29]. These beverages contribute significantly to overall daily caloric intake and added sugar 

consumption, exceeding recommended limits [1]. However, the causal relationship between 

HFCS and obesity remains inconclusive [14], [30]. Many studies suffer from methodological 

limitations, including reliance on self-reported dietary data, short follow-up periods, and 

inadequate consideration of confounding factors such as overall dietary patterns and lifestyle 



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choices [14], [30], [2]. Furthermore, the metabolic effects of HFCS may differ from sucrose, 

though the exact nature and extent of these differences are still under investigation [14], [13]. 

 

Furthermore, the impact of HFCS extends beyond simple weight gain. Studies suggest potential 

links between HFCS consumption and adverse metabolic outcomes, including increased 

triglyceride levels and insulin resistance [16], [19]. There is also some evidence suggesting a 

correlation between HFCS and neuropsychiatric effects [31], though these findings require 

further exploration. The existing research has not adequately examined the potential interactions 

between HFCS consumption and other factors contributing to obesity risk in Hispanic adolescent 

females, such as acculturation, family dynamics, and access to healthy food options [25], [6], 

[11]. Moreover, the influence of neighborhood environment and socioeconomic status on both 

HFCS consumption and obesity prevalence is not fully understood [20], [3]. 

 

The limited research specifically focusing on Hispanic adolescent females in the Texas-Mexico 

border region further complicates the interpretation of findings. The unique cultural and 

socioeconomic context of this population demands tailored research approaches that consider 

these specific factors [26]. Studies employing culturally appropriate methodologies and 

community engagement strategies are needed to better understand the complex interplay of 

factors influencing obesity risk in this group [5], [21]. 

 

Longitudinal Studies with Objective Measures: Longitudinal studies using objective measures of 

dietary intake and body composition are crucial to establish a causal relationship between HFCS 

consumption and obesity. Biomarkers, such as the delta (δ) 13C biomarker [1], offer a more 

accurate assessment of added sugar intake than self-reported data. These studies should follow 

participants for an extended period to capture long-term effects. Such research should also 

account for potential interactions between HFCS intake and other dietary factors , [6]. 

 

Culturally Relevant Interventions: Future research should focus on developing and evaluating 

culturally relevant interventions to reduce HFCS consumption and promote healthier dietary 

patterns. Interventions must consider the unique cultural context of the Texas-Mexico border 

region [5], [21]. Community-based participatory research (CBPR) approaches are essential to 

ensure interventions are acceptable, accessible, and effective [26]. These interventions should 

address dietary changes and broader lifestyle factors. 

 

Exploration of Underlying Mechanisms: Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying 

mechanisms by which HFCS consumption contributes to obesity. This includes investigating the 

potential impact of HFCS on gut microbiota composition and function [18], its effects on 

appetite regulation and satiety [17], and its interaction with other metabolic pathways [24], [19]. 

Understanding these mechanisms will provide crucial insights into the development of more 

effective prevention and treatment strategies. Furthermore, research should investigate the 



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potential role of genetic factors that may influence the susceptibility of Hispanic individuals to 

the adverse effects of HFCS consumption [4]. 

 

Addressing Socioeconomic Disparities: Research should address the social determinants of 

health (SDoH) [20], [5]. Studies should investigate how factors such as income level, access to 

healthy food options, and neighborhood characteristics influence both HFCS consumption and 

obesity risk [32]. This understanding will inform the development of interventions that target 

these upstream determinants of health inequities. Furthermore, the potential influence of 

acculturation on dietary patterns and obesity risk needs to be further explored [25], [6]. 

 

Multi-Level Interventions: Multi-level interventions addressing individual, family, community, 

and policy levels are crucial. Individual-level interventions could focus on nutrition education, 

behavior modification techniques, and personalized dietary guidance. Family-level interventions 

could involve family-based counseling, cooking classes, and strategies to promote healthy eating 

habits at home [2], [11]. Community-level interventions could focus on improving access to 

healthy food options, creating supportive environments for physical activity, and promoting 

community-wide initiatives to reduce HFCS consumption [20]. Policy-level interventions could 

involve taxation of SSBs, regulations on marketing of unhealthy foods to children, and policies 

to improve access to affordable, healthy foods [7]. The effectiveness of multi-level interventions 

should be rigorously evaluated through randomized controlled trials (RCTs) [28]. 

 

Data Collection and Analysis Refinements: Future research should address the methodological 

limitations of previous studies. This includes using standardized definitions and measurement 

tools for dietary intake, body composition, and other relevant outcomes. Moreover, rigorous 

statistical analyses should be employed to control for confounding variables and assess potential 

effect modification [14], [30]. The use of large, population-based datasets can provide valuable 

insights, facilitating robust statistical analyses 

 

By addressing these research gaps and utilizing rigorous methodologies, future studies can 

provide a more complete understanding of HFCS's role in obesity among Hispanic adolescent 

females in the Texas-Mexico border region. This improved understanding will enable the 

development and implementation of effective, culturally relevant interventions to improve the 

health outcomes of this vulnerable population. 

Acknowledgements: 

 Nori Zapata, MSN, RN, Senior Vice President of Education and Career Development, Vanessa Vera, MS, 

Senior Manager of High School and Community Outreach, Anisa Mirza, Intern Program Coordinator.  

  



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Funding: 

Funded  by  DHR  Health High School and Community Outreach;    DHR    Health;    Region    One    ESC 

GEARUP  College  Ready,  Career  Set!;  Region  One ESC   GEARUP   College   Now,   Career   

Connected; Region One ESC PATHS; Region One ESC Upward Bound  Math  &  Science;  Benavides  

ISD;  and  Jubilee Academy-Brownsville 

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