RT Journal A1 Hall RR, Francis S, Whitt-Glover M, Loftin-Bell K, Swett K, McMichael AJ T1 HAir care practices as a barrier to physical activity in african american women JF JAMA Dermatology JO JAMA Dermatology YR 2013 FD March 1 VO 149 IS 3 SP 310 OP 314 DO 10.1001/jamadermatol.2013.1946 UL http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jamadermatol.2013.1946 AB Objective  To characterize the influence of hairstyle maintenance on exercise behavior in African American women.Design  A 40-item survey with questions concerning hair care practices, physical activity, and the relationship between the two.Setting  University-affiliated dermatology department at an academic medical center in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.Participants  A total of 123 African American women from 21 to 60 years of age were surveyed; 103 women completed the questionnaire.Main Outcome Measures  The statistical significance of relationships between hair care practices and physical activity was determined.Results  Fifty percent of African American women surveyed have modified their hairstyle to accommodate exercise and nearly 40% (37.9%) avoid exercise at times owing to hair-related issues. Respondents who exercised less owing to hair concerns were 2.9 times less likely to exercise more than 150 min/wk (95% CI, 0.9-9.4; P = .08).Conclusion  Dermatologists can discuss hair management strategies during exercise that facilitate routinely performing exercise.