Date
7-21-2026
Department
School of Health Sciences
Degree
Doctor of Health Sciences (DHSc)
Chair
Keith Pelletier
Keywords
hypercholesterolemia, obesity, low-carbohydrate diet, exercise, physical activity, statins
Disciplines
Medicine and Health Sciences | Public Health
Recommended Citation
Foggie, Ke'Andra S., "Experiences of Cholesterol Management Among Obese Individuals: A Qualitative Exploration of Statin Use, Diet, and Physical Activity" (2026). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 8709.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/8709
Abstract
The prevalence of hypercholesterolemia has increased over the past decade, with obesity identified as a major contributing factor. This study examined how individuals with obesity and hypercholesterolemia managed cholesterol and experienced related challenges within their daily lives. Guided by the Chronic Care Model, the research explored participant-reported experiences of statin therapy and lifestyle practices, including dietary behaviors and physical activity, as components of cholesterol management. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews, observations, and document analysis to analyze participant-reported barriers, supports, and contextual factors that shape how these practices are incorporated into daily routines. Although extensive research has examined statin therapy and lifestyle modification for hypercholesterolemia management, fewer studies have explored how individuals describe integrating these approaches within real-world preventive care settings. This study contributes to the literature by applying a system-based framework to explore how adults with obesity describe integrating pharmacologic treatment and lifestyle practices within everyday cholesterol management contexts. Participants characterized dietary practices, physical activity, and statin therapy as interconnected components of their health-management routines. Narratives emphasized the importance of culturally relevant support, clear communication, and accessible guidance in supporting ongoing engagement and continuity of care. Collectively, these findings provide contextual insight for clinicians and health organizations seeking to better understand participant perspectives related to care coordination in preventive health management.
