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Female college student weight perception discordance. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2021; 69:23-29. [PMID: 31343383 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2019.1645678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2018] [Revised: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Examine the prevalence of body weight perception discordance, and its relationship with physical activity and mental health among college women. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS Data were collected from a convenience sample of female undergraduates enrolled in general education health and wellness courses at a large, northeastern United States university (n = 1607) via direct email using previously validated measures that assessed: demographics; physical activity; weight goals and perceptions; mental health and sleep; and, physical activity enjoyment, self-efficacy, and goal setting. Analyses included one-way analysis of variance analyses and chi-square tests for independence. RESULTS Though most women had accurate weight status perceptions (n = 987, 62.6%), there was a tendency to overestimate weight status (n = 482, 31.2%) that was associated with greater depressive symptoms. CONCLUSION A relatively large minority of women demonstrated discordant weight status perceptions, which were associated with adverse mental health outcomes. Colleges should consider improving healthy weight status perception education among women to improve mental health.
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Objective vs self-report assessment of height, weight and body mass index: Relationships with adiposity, aerobic fitness and physical activity. Clin Obes 2019; 9:e12331. [PMID: 31293064 DOI: 10.1111/cob.12331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Researchers, policymakers and clinicians commonly use height and weight to determine body mass index (BMI) and classify weight status. Self-report measures are widely used but often result in misreported height and weight and, consequentially, underestimation of BMI and-potentially-weight status misclassification. The purpose of this study was to examine differences in objective and self-reported height, weight and BMI values and to find whether discordance is associated with other anthropometric measures, fitness and physical activity. Data were collected from college students through: (a) a pre-consultation online questionnaire where participants self-reported gender, height and weight; (b) an objective fitness assessment that assessed height, weight, body fat percentage, abdominal girth and predicted aerobic fitness; and (c) a post-assessment electronic survey that assessed physical activity. Parametric and non-parametric analyses examined differences between groups. Objective and self-reported height and weight data were collected from 1061 participants, 224 of whom also provided physical activity data. Women significantly under-reported weight (P = .003, η2 = 0.02), and both genders over-reported height (P < .001, η2 ≥ 0.07), resulting in a significant difference between BMIs calculated using the different measures (P < .001, η2 ≥ 0.07) and the weight status misclassification of ~15% of participants. Significant differences were found in anthropometrics, fitness and physical activity based on reporting differences for weight (P ≤ .015) and BMI (P ≤ .015). Students demonstrated a tendency to under-report weight and over-report height, resulting in weight status misclassification. Those who under-reported weight tended to be in poorer health as indicated by lower aerobic fitness and higher abdominal girth and body fat percentage in particular. Further research is required to establish the link between under-reporting weight and over-reporting physical activity.
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"Do I look fat?" Self-perceived body weight and labor market outcomes. ECONOMICS AND HUMAN BIOLOGY 2018; 30:48-58. [PMID: 29920419 DOI: 10.1016/j.ehb.2018.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2017] [Revised: 05/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Research reporting that greater body weight is associated with lower wages and employment, particularly among women, focuses on how employers perceive workers. In contrast, we examine whether workers' own perceptions of body weight influence labor market outcomes. Numerous studies find that misperception of body weight influences health behaviors and health, both mental and physical. For example, anorexia nervosa involves the over-perception of weight and raises the risk of cardiovascular disease. Do the health consequences of inaccurate self-perceived weight carry through to the labor market? We use the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1997 (NLSY97) to investigate patterns in weight misperception and three labor market outcomes. We find little evidence that either over-perception or under-perception of weight is associated with wages, weeks worked, or the number of jobs held for women and men.
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Perceived not actual overweight is associated with excessive school absenteeism among U.S. adolescents. Obes Res Clin Pract 2017; 11:398-405. [DOI: 10.1016/j.orcp.2016.10.286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2016] [Revised: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 10/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Body image satisfaction and weight concerns among a Mediterranean adult population. BMC Public Health 2017; 17:39. [PMID: 28061761 PMCID: PMC5217589 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-016-3919-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2016] [Accepted: 12/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background People tend to underestimate their current weight and overestimate their height minimizing health risk factors. The aim of this study was to assess body weight satisfaction, acceptance of body image, weight concern and dieting habits among a Mediterranean adult population. Methods Cross-sectional survey was carried out (2009–2010) in the Balearic Islands, Spain. A random sample (n = 1081) of young (18–35 y.o.) and middle-aged adults (36–55 y.o.) was interviewed and anthropometrically measured. Results Women were more dissatisfied being overweight, less dissatisfied being underweight, and more worried about weight gain than men. Middle-aged participants were more dissatisfied with body shape and underestimated body weight than young’s. Employed women defined better current weight than unemployed, but unemployed were more worried about body weight gain. Overweight adults were more likely to underestimate their body weight but were also very worried about weight gain and more likely to report current dieting than their leaner counterparts. Active participants self-reported better body weight and were more satisfied with body image than sedentary. Conclusions Most of studied population reported body image dissatisfaction, but half of them are not worried about it. Women were more concerned about their body weight status. Practice of physical activity is a positive factor in self-perception. Holistic strategies are needed to avoid promoting unreal bodies, as well as the acceptance of the real body image.
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Exploring the potential for internet-based interventions for treatment of overweight and obesity in college students. Glob Health Promot 2014; 22:20-8. [DOI: 10.1177/1757975914547546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2013] [Accepted: 07/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To assess the use of internet-enabled technology for seeking health information and resources in overweight/obese college students. Participants: College students ( N = 706) in Vancouver, Canada surveyed in April 2012. Methods: An online survey assessed socio-demographics, health behaviors, and use of internet-enabled technology. Results: Eating habits, dieting and/or exercising to lose weight, and weight satisfaction differed by weight status (all p < 0.05). Of overweight/obese participants, 48% reported they would use online student health resources. When seeking general health information, 91% would use websites; 45% would use online videos; and 75% trusted information from government or health organizations. Conclusions: Overweight/obesity is prevalent among college students. The majority of overweight/obese students reported trying to lose weight and would use the internet for health information, especially if a website is associated with a health organization. The internet is a cost-effective channel for screening coupled with the delivery of tailored, evidence-based interventions for college students.
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A survey of overweight, body shape perception and eating attitude of Korean female university students. J Exerc Nutrition Biochem 2014; 18:287-92. [PMID: 25566465 PMCID: PMC4241896 DOI: 10.5717/jenb.2014.18.3.287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2014] [Revised: 08/18/2014] [Accepted: 08/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
[Purpose] We obtained basic data on a proper weight loss training program by considering the relationship between body mass index (BMI), the perception of appearance, and eating attitudes of Korean female university students. [Methods] The survey and anthropometry for the perception of appearance and eating attitudes were conducted targeting 657 female university students located in Seoul, Busan, Ulsan, Daejeon, Chungcheongnam-do, and Gangwon-do South Korea who were not specializing in physical education. [Results] The underweight group accounted for 21.16% of the population, the normal weight group comprised 69.71%, the overweight group was 6.09%, and the obese group accounted for 3.04%. The satisfaction rate of appearance was 56.16%, the dissatisfaction rate was 43.84%, and normal-weight students who were dissatisfied with their own appearance comprised 48.5%. The More obese students were more dissatisfied with their appearance. As a result of investigating eating attitudes, 37.75% of all subjects had a risk for an eating disorder, and 38.6% were normal weight but showed a risk for an eating disorder. More obese (BMI) subjects were at higher risk for an eating disorder. [Conclusion] The BMIs of the Korean female university students were lower than those of European and American Caucasian women students, but the dissatisfaction of Korean female university students with their appearances was greater than that of European and American students, indicating that more Korean female university students were suffering from an eating disorder. It is predicted that the incidence of eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia, will rise in Korean women if there is no accurate understanding and measure to identify the high risk group for an eating disorder.
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Abstract
Understanding the role of body size in relation to the accuracy of body image perception in men is an important topic because of the implications for avoiding and treating obesity, and it may serve as a potential diagnostic criterion for eating disorders. The early research on this topic produced mixed findings. About one-half of the early studies showed that obese men overestimated their body size, with the remaining half providing accurate estimates. Later, improvements in research technology and methodology provided a clearer indication of the role of weight status in body image perception. Research in our laboratory has also produced diverse findings, including that obese subjects sometimes overestimate their body size. However, when examining our findings across several studies, obese subjects had about the same level of accuracy in estimating their body size as normal-weight subjects. Studies in our laboratory also permitted the separation of sensory and nonsensory factors in body image perception. In all but one instance, no differences were found overall between the ability of obese and normal-weight subjects to detect overall changes in body size. Importantly, however, obese subjects are better at detecting changes in their body size when the image is distorted to be too thin as compared to too wide. Both obese and normal-weight men require about a 3%–7% change in the width of their body size in order to detect the change reliably. Correlations between a range of body mass index values and body size estimation accuracy indicated no relationship between these variables. Numerous studies in other laboratories asked men to place their body size into discrete categorizes, ranging from thin to obese. Researchers found that overweight and obese men underestimate their weight status, and that men are less accurate in their categorizations than are women. Cultural influences have been found to be important, with body size underestimations occurring in cultures where a larger body is found to be desirable. Methodological issues are reviewed with recommendations for future studies.
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The Association of Body Mass Index, Perceived Body Mass Index, and Predictors of Eating Disorders among a Sample of College Students. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH EDUCATION 2013. [DOI: 10.1080/19325037.2003.10603574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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A cross-sectional study of body shape and eating attitude among Indian female healthcare students. Int J Psychiatry Med 2012; 43:309-23. [PMID: 23094464 DOI: 10.2190/pm.43.4.b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The current study aimed at assessing eating attitude and body shape concerns among Indian female healthcare students who had received some teaching/training in Psychiatry. METHOD The study was conducted at government medical and nursing college. All the undergraduate healthcare students enrolled with institute at the time of study constituted the sampling frame for the study. Survey-based methodology was used for data collection. Study scales included semi-structured proforma, Eating Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26) (including the three sub-scales), and Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ). Data were analyzed using Pearson's and Spearman's correlation statistics and ANOVA with post hoc analysis. RESULTS A total of 498 students returned the completed study questionnaire. There was significant correlation between Body Mass Index (BMI) and EAT-26 scores) including the sub-scales score of EAT-26). Similarly, BMI and BSQ scores were also significantly correlated. DISCUSSION The findings from current study help understand the body shape and eating attitudes of Indian female healthcare students who had received some teaching/training in Psychiatry.
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Weight status and perception of body image in children: the effect of maternal immigrant status. Nutr J 2012; 11:85. [PMID: 23067040 PMCID: PMC3493294 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2891-11-85] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2012] [Accepted: 10/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies have shown that body image perception is an important factor in weight control and may be influenced by culture and ethnicity. The aim of the present study was to assess the relationship between immigrant status of the mother and weight status and body image perception of the child. METHODS In total, 2706 schoolchildren (1405 boys and 1301 girls) aged 8-9 years and their mothers participated in a cross-sectional survey in Emilia-Romagna region (northern Italy). Weight and height of the children were measured and Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated. Actual and ideal body image perception by the children and by the mothers with respect to their children was evaluated according to Collins' body image silhouettes. RESULTS The BMI values were significantly lower in children of immigrants than in children of Italian mothers (F:17.27 vs 17.99 kg/m²; M:17.77 vs 18.13 kg/m²). The prevalence of overweight/obesity was lower, and the prevalence of underweight higher, in children of immigrant mothers than in those of Italian mothers (overweight- F:21.3 vs 29.1%; M. 28.3 vs 31.4%; underweight- F:5.16 vs 3.84%; M:6.63 vs 2.82%). The children's body image perception was consistent with the differing pattern of nutritional status. In the comparison between actual and ideal figures, the Feel-Ideal Difference Index (FID) scores resulted different between the subsample with foreign-born mother in comparison to the native one (significantly lower in daughters of immigrants) (FID- F: 0.31 vs 0.57; M: 0.35 vs 0.32). There were significant differences in the choice of the ideal figure of the child between immigrant mothers and Italian mothers (FID- F: -0.05 vs 0.19; M: -0.35 vs -0.03): the ideal figure values were higher in the immigrant mothers of male children and lower in the Italian mothers of female children. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that cultural and behavioral factors linked to ethnicity play an important role in the nutritional status of children and in the perceived and ideal body image.
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Self-perception of weight and its association with weight-related behaviors in young, reproductive-aged women. Obstet Gynecol 2011; 116:1274-1280. [PMID: 21099591 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0b013e3181fdfc47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine weight misperceptions and their predictors and association with weight-related behaviors among low-income, multiethnic, reproductive-age women. METHODS We assessed perceptions of body weight and weight-related behaviors of women aged 18 to 25 attending one of five publicly funded reproductive clinics in Texas between August 2008 and March 2010. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires and chart review. Overweight and normal-weight women were divided into four categories based on self-perception of their body weight: overweight misperceivers, overweight actual perceivers, normal-weight misperceivers, and normal-weight actual perceivers. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the predictors of misperception and the association with weight-related behaviors. RESULTS Twenty-three percent (267/1,162) of overweight and 16% (170/1,062) of normal-weight women were misperceivers. Overweight African-American women were more likely to consider themselves normal weight (28% compared with 15%; odds ratio [OR], 2.84; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.79-4.50), whereas normal-weight African-American women were less likely than whites to consider themselves overweight (7% compared with 16%; OR 0.40; 95% CI 0.22-0.74). Overweight women who had at least some college education (14% compared with 29%; OR 0.53; 95% CI 0.32-0.86) and used the Internet (18% compared with 28%; OR 0.47; 95% CI 0.31-0.70) were less likely to misperceive their body weight. Normal-weight misperceivers were more likely to report healthy and unhealthy weight-reduction behaviors compared with normal-weight actual perceivers, after adjusting for age, race, ethnicity, and body mass index. Opposite scenarios were observed for overweight misperceivers. CONCLUSION Weight misperception is common among both overweight and normal-weight women of reproductive age. Clinicians should provide patient-specific counseling related to healthy weight management goals that take each patient's perceptions into consideration.
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An outbreak of body weight dissatisfaction associated with self-perceived BMI and dieting among female pharmacy students. Biomed Pharmacother 2009; 63:679-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2008.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2008] [Accepted: 08/16/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine changes in public perceptions of overweight in Great Britain over an eight year period. DESIGN Comparison of data on self perceived weight from population surveys in 1999 and 2007. SETTING Household surveys of two representative samples in Great Britain. PARTICIPANTS 853 men and 944 women in 1999, and 847 men and 989 women in 2007. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Participants were asked to report their weight and height and classify their body size on a scale from "very underweight" to "obese." RESULTS Self reported weights increased dramatically over time, but the weight at which people perceived themselves to be overweight also rose significantly. In 1999, 81% of overweight participants correctly identified themselves as overweight compared with 75% in 2007, demonstrating a decrease in sensitivity in the self diagnosis of overweight. CONCLUSIONS Despite media and health campaigns aiming to raise awareness of healthy weight, increasing numbers of overweight people fail to recognise that their weight is a cause for concern. This makes it less likely that they will see calls for weight control as personally relevant.
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Weight loss practices and body weight perceptions among US college students. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2008; 56:579-584. [PMID: 18400672 DOI: 10.3200/jach.56.5.579-584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The authors assessed associations between body weight perception and weight loss strategies. PARTICIPANTS They randomly selected male and female college students (N = 38,204). METHODS The authors conducted a secondary data analysis of the rates of weight loss strategies and body weight perception among students who completed the National College Health Assessment survey. RESULTS Half of respondents (50%) were trying to lose weight, although only 28% of students were overweight or obese. Also, 12% of respondents had inaccurate body weight perception. Women and men with inaccurate body weight perception were significantly more likely to engage in inappropriate weight loss strategies than were those with accurate body weight perception. Of all students attempting to lose weight, 38% used both diet and exercise. CONCLUSIONS These data show that college students are interested in weight loss and that body weight perception plays an important role in the desire to lose weight.
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Beyond adolescence. Womens Health Issues 2007; 17:374-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2007.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2007] [Revised: 05/10/2007] [Accepted: 05/29/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Overweight and its relationship to Middle Eastern American college students' sociodemographics and physical activity. RESEARCH QUARTERLY FOR EXERCISE AND SPORT 2007; 78:248-56. [PMID: 17679498 DOI: 10.1080/02701367.2007.10599422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
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The association between the body mass index of first-year female university students and their weight-related perceptions and practices, psychological health, physical activity and other physical health indicators. Public Health Nutr 2007; 9:234-43. [PMID: 16571178 DOI: 10.1079/phn2005846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
AbstractObjectiveTo investigate the association between the weight status of first–year female students (FYFS) and various weight management–related characteristics to identify possible components of a weight management programme for students.DesignCross‐sectional study.SettingFemale residences at a South African university.SubjectsA total of 360 FYFS.ResultsMean (± standard deviation (SD)) body mass index (BMI) of the FYFS was 21.8 ± 2.6 kg m−2, with 7.2% being underweight, 81.9% normal‐weight, 10.0% overweight and 0.8% obese. Underweight, normal–eight and overweight students differed with regard to their perception of their weight (P < 0.001), weight goals (P < 0.001) and previous weight–loss practices (P < 0.001). Mean ± SD score on the 26-item Eating Attitudes Test (EAT–26) was 8.5 ± 9.0 with 8.4% classified as high scorers. Mean ± SD score on the 34-item Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) was 87.7 ± 32.2, with 76.1% classified as low, 11.9% as medium and 11.9% as high scorers. The self-concept questionnaire indicated that 36.7% had a high, 43.9% a medium and 19.4% a low self-concept. Higher BMI correlated with a higher BSQ score (P < 0.001), a lower self-concept (P = 0.029) and a higher EAT-26 score (P < 0.001). Smoking was prevalent amongst 13.1% of students, and 51.2% used vitamin and/or mineral supplements. Students who quitted smoking had higher (P = 0.006) BMI (22.7 ± 2.9 kg m-2) than those who never smoked before (21.6 ± 2.5 kg m−2). Normal-weight students were more physically active than underweight or overweight students (P = 0.038).ConclusionsThe specific weight management-related needs of FYFS include information about supplement use, smoking, realistic weight goals, safe and sound weight-loss methods, weight cycling, body-shape perceptions, eating attitudes and behaviours, self-concept and physical activity. Interventions aimed at correcting these problems should target all students, regardless of their BMI.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Eating disorders have traditionally been associated with the white community in South Africa. The emergence of eating disorders among blacks in the mid 1990's appeared to signal a demographic shift. Subsequent data suggested that eating disorders would increase in prevalence amongst black South Africans. OBJECTIVE The current study sought to explore body figure preference in a cross cultural South African sample, given the established relationship between body dissatisfaction and eating disorders. METHODS The sample comprised a community based, multi-racial adolescent population in both urban (n=1353) and rural (n=361) areas. The Body Figure Preference Test [BFPT] was administered. RESULTS Most urban respondents had a desire to be smaller (white=72%; black=61%), whereas rural black respondents were more evenly divided amongst those who were content (31%), desiring to be larger (29%) and desiring to be smaller (40%) [Chi square value=105.309, df=4, p=0.001]. CONCLUSIONS The findings of the study demonstrate that racial homogenization exists regarding body figure preference within the urban setting. Data from the rural area suggests milieu specific factors in this regard with fewer respondents desiring to be smaller. This may have implications for the emergence of eating disorders in black South African populations, more specifically those in urban areas.
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Associations between juvenile delinquency and weight-related variables: analyses from a national sample of high school students. Int J Eat Disord 2006; 39:477-83. [PMID: 16637048 DOI: 10.1002/eat.20271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examined direct and conditional associations between juvenile delinquency and weight-related variables in a national sample of high school students. METHOD Data from the 2003 Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) of 12,713 high school students aged 14 to 17 were examined. Logistic regression analyses were used to analyze the data. RESULTS Bivariate and multivariate analyses indicated that juvenile delinquents were more likely than nondelinquents to use fasting, vomiting, and drugs to lose weight or to keep from gaining weight. Multivariate analyses also showed that delinquents were more likely than nondelinquents to perceive themselves as overweight, but the two groups did not differ in regard to actual overweight status. Tests of interactions in multivariate analyses indicated that the associations between delinquent status and specific, weight-related variables were stronger among younger than among older adolescents, as well as among female than among male adolescents. CONCLUSIONS Future research should examine risk and protective factors for unhealthy weight control behaviors and perceptions among delinquents.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The current study investigated the accuracy of reported current and historical weights and of menstrual status in teenage girls with eating disorders. METHOD Reported current weight in one interview was compared with measured weight at another occasion. Reported historical weights were compared with documented weights from growth charts of the school health services. Reports of menstrual status from two different interviews were compared. RESULTS The overall correlation between reported and measured/documented weight was high. Current weight was reported with high accuracy in all diagnostic groups and without tendencies to underreport. Patients with bulimia nervosa, but not those with anorexia nervosa, underreported their historical top weight. The most common reason for large discrepancies between reported and documented historical weights was that the two weights compared referred to different time points. The reports on menstrual status were divergent for 13% of the patients, most notably 4 of 15 patients on oral contraceptives had been categorized as having menstruations in one of the interviews. CONCLUSION Reported weight history and menstrual status are of high accuracy in teenage girls with eating disorders.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND This study examines the relationship between actual weight status and perceptions of body weight in Bahraini adolescents. The study also investigates the adolescents' perceptions of parents' and peers' opinions of weight. METHODS A cross-sectional survey of 447 Bahraini male and female adolescents aged 12-17 years was conducted. Weight and height were measured and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. A short questionnaire was used to obtain their attitudes towards their weight status, as well as the attitudes of their parents and friends. The nine figure silhouettes illustration was used to measure perception of ideal body image and how it compares with their current body weight. RESULTS The results revealed a significant discrepancy between adolescents' perception of body weight and actual BMI. There was a tendency for teenagers to underestimate their weight status, which was especially noteworthy among the overweight and obese. More than half of the girls and about one-third of the boys expressed discontent with their current body weight. One-third (33.5%) and 26.6% of the adolescents thought that their parents and their peers, respectively, would consider them to be overweight or obese. The percentage of adolescents who reported parental or peer underestimation was higher among those classified as overweight or obese than it was among those who were of normal weight. CONCLUSION The study shows the existence of a distorted body image as reflected by failure of many overweight or obese adolescents to perceive themselves as such. Among Bahraini adolescents weight-related beliefs and attitudes exist at two ends of the spectrum: a tolerance of obesity at one end and an exaggerated concern for its occurrence at the other.
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Why do slim women consider themselves too heavy? A characterization of adult women considering their body weight as too heavy. Int J Eat Disord 2004; 35:275-85. [PMID: 15048943 DOI: 10.1002/eat.10274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to characterize women who, in spite of a low body mass index (BMI), considered themselves too heavy. METHOD Of 11,905 women (27-38 years of age), we focused on 2,443 nonpregnant women with a low BMI (18.5-21.0 kg/m(2)), who considered their weight acceptable or too heavy. Participants completed a comprehensive questionnaire. By multiple logistic regression we examined associations between lifestyle and health variables and the risk of considering own body weight too heavy. RESULTS Approximately 10 % considered their body weight too heavy. Risk factors included early severe life events, young age at start of risky lifestyle behaviors, weight fluctuation, self-reported lifetime history of eating disorders, perception of too heavy workload, and poor physical form and self-rated health. Body dissatisfaction decreased with increasing age. DISCUSSION Our results indicate that body dissatisfaction is established in childhood and adolescence. It is unknown if this body dissatisfaction influences the life of the women, but it might influence the values they pass on to their children.
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Abstract
The purpose of the study is to compare temporal changes in BMI, overweight (BMI > 25 Kg/m2) and obesity (BMI > 30 Kg/m2) of two independent cross-sectional samples of Kuwaitis studied in 1980-81 and 1993-94. The earlier sample of 2067 (896 men and 1171 women) and the latter sample of 3435 (1730 men and 1705 women) adult Kuwaitis (aged > or = 18 years), were drawn from primary health care (PHC) clinics and studied for nutritional assessment and for prevalence of obesity in 1980-81 and 1993-94, respectively. Weight was measured in kilograms and height in meters to obtain the body mass index (BMI), which is the weight in kilograms divided by the height in meters squared (Kg/m2). BMI > 25 and > 30 Kg/m2 were classified as overweight and obesity, respectively. The results of the study show that mean BMI (Kg/m2) increased significantly (p < 0.001) by 10.0 and 6.2% (2.5 and 1.7 Kg/m2) among men and women, respectively. Prevalence of overweight and obesity (BMI > 25 and > 30 Kg/m2) increased by 20.6 and 15.4% and by 13.7 and 8.4% among men and women, respectively. After controlling for sociodemographic differences between the two study periods, mean BMI was 2.0 and 1.6 Kg/m2 higher in 1993-94 than in 1980-81 among men and women, respectively. Prevalence of overweight and obesity (BMI > 25 and > 30 Kg/m2) also increased among both genders between the two periods (OR = 2.1 , 95% CI 1.7-2.7 and OR = 1.9, 95% CI 1.5-2.4, for men and OR = 2.2, 95% CI 1.6-3.0 and OR = 1.4, 95% CI 2.2 CI 1.0-1.9, for women). It can be concluded that the BMI, prevalence of overweight and obesity increased among Kuwaitis between 1980-81 and 1993-94, probably due to the effects of modernization, affluence, increased food consumption and the concomitant changes to sedentary lifestyles. The rate of temporal changes in BMI and obesity were higher, by comparison, in Kuwait than in selected other countries.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the agreement between individuals' weight status as measured by their body mass index (BMI) and their perceptions of their weight status in the US population. DESIGN Data from the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1988-94 (NHANES III), were used to cross-tabulate actual weight status and self-assessed weight status, identifying population proportions that underassessed or overassessed weight status. The study accounts for gender and socioeconomic and demographic variables to identify subpopulations in which relatively large numbers of individuals misperceive their weight status. MEASUREMENTS Survey data included clinically measured height and weight. BMI was categorized (overweight, healthy weight, or underweight) following conventional cutpoints. In addition, each surveyed individual was asked to assess their own (categorical) weight status. SUBJECTS NHANES III is representative of the US population. The sample included 7758 males and 8451 females aged 20 y or above after excluding women who were pregnant or breastfeeding. RESULTS We show that large segments of the US population misperceive their weight status. The mix of misperceptions differs by gender, with men who are obese or overweight more likely than obese or overweight women to underassess their weight status. Women who are healthy weight/underweight are more likely than men to believe they are overweight. In addition to the gender differences, underassessors are more frequently found among those aged 65 y and over, individuals with relatively low education levels, lower income levels, and among non-Hispanic black subjects. Overassessors are more frequently found among women less than 65 y old (between the ages of 35 and 64 y for men), individuals with higher education levels, higher income levels, and among non-Hispanic white subjects. CONCLUSIONS Information programs linking overweight and obesity with health risks might fail to induce diet and lifestyle changes if individuals fail to recognize they are overweight or obese. While there are large number of individuals who fail to recognize their overweight or obese status, there are indicator variables that can help identify this subpopulation. Thus, it is possible to first target a message that would attempt to correct misperceptions. If successful, the size of the population susceptible to a weight-health risk information program could increase.
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[Use of self-reported values of body weight and body height in nutritional status evaluation in adolescents]. MEDICINSKI PREGLED 2003; 56:168-72. [PMID: 12899083 DOI: 10.2298/mpns0304168b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of our study was to assess validity of self-reported body weight and height compared to measured values in a group of adolescents. We also investigated differences in reported and measured values and factors responsible for them in this particular population. MATERIAL AND METHODS 295 adolescents aged 11-14 (114 boys and 131 girls) attending primary schools in central Belgrade, recorded their BMI and completed a series of questionnaires measuring body satisfaction and eating patterns. All participants were measured afterwards. RESULTS Differences between reported and measured weights were highly significant in girls (48.84 +/- 8.42 kg vs 49.69 +/- 9.28 kg). Significant differences between reported and measured weights were established in the group of adolescents with weight problems (-3.18 +/- 4.03 kg). Adolescents on diets presented a difference of -1.36 +/- 3.36 kg. Weight problems (OR 3.72, 95%CI: 2.10-4.75) and female gender (errors occurred more often for 22%, 95%CI: 0.23-1.80) were significant predictors in multivariate regression model for discrepancy of reported and measured weights. In a multivariate regression model, where differences in BMI were dependent variable, weight category was a significant predictor, with differences being 1.65 times more common (95%CI: 1.13-2.11). DISCUSSION Our results suggest that self-reported body weight and height have limited reliability and can be used only in normal weight male adolescents. This method should not be recommended in surveys that involve overweight and/or obese adolescents and those who are on diet.
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Weight and dieting: examining levels of weight concern in British adults. Int J Obes (Lond) 2002; 26:1144-9. [PMID: 12119582 DOI: 10.1038/sj.ijo.0802046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2001] [Revised: 02/27/2002] [Accepted: 03/13/2002] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Amid rising levels of obesity, not all overweight individuals recognize that their weight is too high. At the same time many of those whose weight is within the normal range are dissatisfied with their body size, providing evidence of inappropriate weight aspirations, especially amongst women. This research examines the nature and level of complacency and over-concern in overweight, underweight and normal-weight individuals. METHODS Data on weight, perceived overweight and dieting status were collected from a stratified probability sample of 1894 British adults, as part of the Office of National Statistics' Omnibus Survey. RESULTS Most obese adults correctly perceived themselves as overweight, but many were not trying to lose weight, and only a minority had participated in a programme of weight control. Men's awareness was lower than women's. At the other extreme, few men, but around a quarter of normal-weight women felt overweight or were trying to lose weight, but their preferred weight was only slightly below their actual weight. CONCLUSIONS :These results suggest that weight concern among British women is high, but probably not excessive and there is little evidence for idealization of dangerously low weights. In contrast, many overweight men were unaware of their weight problem. Only around half of those who would benefit from weight reduction were trying to lose weight, and few had received advice from health professionals. In view of the prevalence of obesity, there may be opportunities to provide more guidance on weight control within primary care.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify the factors associated with an adequate perception of body image in relation to body weight. MATERIAL AND METHODS An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted in a representative sample of the European Union (7,155 men and 8,077 women). Body Mass Index (BMI) was grouped into four categories, perceived body image was assessed using the nine silhouettes drawing scheme. A multivariable logistic regression model for each sex was used to adjust for potentially confounding variables. RESULTS Underweight men and women classified themselves better than other groups (92.9% of correct answers among men and 79.3% among women). Overall, women classified themselves better than men (57.6% vs. 32.7%). DISCUSSION Perceived body image as a method of assessment for body weight has different validity depending on sociodemographic or attitudinal categories. Perceived body image as an estimate of the nutritional status has a limited individualized application. Thus, perhaps it could be applied as a proxy measure of adiposity among slim males and among slim and overweight females, but not among the other groups.
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Obesity among Kuwait University students: an explorative study. THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL SOCIETY FOR THE PROMOTION OF HEALTH 1999; 119:223-7. [PMID: 10673842 DOI: 10.1177/146642409911900404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
University students' dietary habits have been criticised for their nutritional inadequacy and faddism. Kuwait University students may face the risk of obesity because of affluence and modernization and the dynamic changes in their level of physical activity and caloric intake. This promoted a study of a random sample of 842 Kuwait University students for dietary and socioeconomic factors associated with obesity. Weight and height were measured to calculate the body mass index (BMI), which is the weight in kilograms divided by the height in meters squared (kg/m2). Obesity was classified into grade 1 and 2 (BMI > 25 and > 30 kg/m2). The associated factors studied and obtained through questionnaires included gender, age, marital status, parental obesity, education and occupation, dieting, last dental and health check-up, year of study, number of siblings (total, brothers and sisters), eating in between meals, high school and college GPA and major, exercising, number of regular meals eaten, obese relatives, those living at home, and servants, highest desired degree, birth order, having a chronic disease, countries prefer visiting, family income, governorate, and socioeconomic status (SES). Grade 1 and 2 obesity were found to be 32.0 and 8.9%, respectively. Factors that were found to be significantly associated with obesity included gender, age, marital status, obesity among parents, dieting, last physical check-up, year of study, number of brothers, sisters and regular meals eaten and high school GPA. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the same factors significantly contributed to the development of obesity except the last four. The level of obesity among Kuwait University students is high. Obesity is a risk factor for a variety of chronic diseases. There is a need to address the challenge of instituting measures that would reduce the future ill-effects of obesity on young adults. It is widely believed that during the young adult years many important health habits are formed and set. It is at this stage (or earlier) that wellness and self-care programming for college students is essential and worthy of being explored and its efficacy assessed.
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Abstract
Obesity has been on the increase among people of the Arabian Gulf countries. Overweight and obesity among 18-29-year-old Kuwaiti men increased by 23.4 and 14.8% respectively, between 1980 and 1993. The objective of the present study was to explore factors associated with overweight and obesity in a sample of 515 Kuwaiti college men studied in 1997. Weight and height were measured. The index of adiposity used was the BMI, which is the weight (kg) divided by the height (m) squared (kg/m2). The men were classified as overweight (BMI > 25 kg/m2) or obese (BMI > 30 kg/m2). The associated factors obtained through questionnaires included age, marital status, governorate, number of siblings, suffering from a chronic disease, subjects' parental obesity, education and occupation, number of major meals eaten, eating between meals, family income, number of servants, number of people living at home, exercising, last dental and physical check-up, dieting, year of study, highest desired degree after college, countries preferred for visiting, and socio-economic status. The results of the study revealed that 38.5 and 11.1% of the students were overweight and obese respectively. Factors that were found to be significantly associated with overweight and obesity among the men included age, marital status, last dental check-up, exercising, subjects' parental obesity, dieting and year of study. Logistic regression analysis of significant associated factors revealed that the same factors contributed to the development of overweight and obesity.
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Obesity concerns, weight satisfaction and characteristics of female dieters: a study on female Taiwanese college students. J Am Coll Nutr 1999; 18:194-200. [PMID: 10204838 DOI: 10.1080/07315724.1999.10718850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was designed to obtain baseline data regarding desired body weight, weight satisfaction, self-perceived weight categories, approaches to weight loss of female college students in Taiwan. The characteristics of subjects who are dieting were also assessed. METHODS One thousand, fifty-seven female college students participated in this study. Written questionnaires were used for data collection. Students' height and weight were also measured. Simple frequency and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used to analyze data. Post hoc analyses were performed with the LSD test when the F ratio for the ANOVA was significant at p<0.05. RESULTS In general, subjects perceived themselves as being heavier than their actual weight categories. The percentage of subjects who perceived they were overweight or obese was much higher than the percentage of subjects who were actually in these categories (51.4% vs. 16.2%). Above 20% of subjects in both severely underweight and underweight categories use some methods to lose weight. More than 60% of subjects in acceptable weight categories still want to lose weight. A higher percentage of subjects chose exercise than dieting as the major weight-loss method. Subjects in the DS/D (dissatisfied/dieting) group did not score higher points for knowledge and attitude in nutrition, and they tended to measure their body weight more frequently (p<0.05), spent more time for exercise (p<0.05) and for reading nutrition information (p<0.05); they also skipped lunch (p<0.05) more frequently than others. CONCLUSIONS The results indicate that risk factors leading to eating disorders are common among Taiwanese college females. Dietitians, physicians and other health professionals should be on the alert to identify patients with eating disorders.
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Abstract
A random sample of 585 Kuwaiti college women was studied in 1997 for factors associated with overweight and obesity. Weight and height were measured. The index of adiposity used was the body mass index (BMI), which is the weight in kilograms divided by the height squared (W/H2). The women were classified as overweight or obese (BMI > 25 or > 30 Kg/m2). The associated factors obtained through questionnaires included age, marital status, area of residence, number of siblings, (brothers, sisters, total), suffering from a chronic disease, obesity among parents, parents' education and occupation, number of major meals eaten, eating between meals, family income, number of servants, number of people living at home, exercising, last dental and physical checkup, dieting, year of study, highest desired degree, countries prefer visiting, and socioeconomic status (SES). The results of the study revealed that 27.2 and 7.2% of the students were overweight (BMI > 25 Kg/m2) and obese (BMI > 30 Kg/m2), respectively. Factors that were found to be significantly associated with overweight and obesity among the women included number of brothers, having a chronic disease, obesity among parents, dieting and countries prefer visiting. Logistic regression analysis of significant associated factors revealed that the same factors contributed to the development of overweight and obesity except number of brothers and having a chronic disease.
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A cardiovascular health needs assessment of university students living in residence. Canadian Journal of Public Health 1998. [PMID: 9654801 DOI: 10.1007/bf03404468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the cardiovascular health needs of university students living in residence. A survey was administered to students living in residence at a university in Nova Scotia, Canada to identify eating patterns, physical activity, smoking behaviours and perceived stress. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests of association. Qualitative data were collected using focus group interviews. Results showed that fewer than half of the students participated in exercise three or more times per week, and 82% are less than the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables. As perceived knowledge of CVD increased so did level of physical activity and consumption of fruits and vegetables. Fifty-six percent of students rated their stress as high or very high; exams and course assignments are a major cause of this stress. Fifteen percent of the university students surveyed were daily smokers. Barriers to a healthy lifestyle include time constraints and limited food choices in the residence cafeteria.
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Changes in body mass index and prevalence of obesity among adult Kuwaiti women attending health clinics. Ann Saudi Med 1997; 17:307-11. [PMID: 17369728 DOI: 10.5144/0256-4947.1997.307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was undertaken to compare changes in body mass index (BMI, kg/m 2) and in prevalence of adiposity (BMI>25 and >30 kg/m 2) between two cross-sections of previously studied samples of 1171 and 1705 adult (aged >/=18 years) Kuwaiti women drawn from primary health care (PHC) clinics and studied for nutritional assessment and for prevalence of obesity in 1980-1981 and 1993-1994, respectively. Mild and moderate obesity (BMI>25 and >30 kg/m 2) were assessed based on the WHO criteria. The results of the study showed that BMI and prevalence of obesity (BMI>25 and >30 kg/m 2) increased by 6.2% (1.7 kg/m2), 22.7% and 8.4%, respectively. After controlling for sociodemographic differences between the two study periods, including period of study, age, region, education, marital status and occupation, mean BMI was 1.6 kg/m 2 higher in 1993-1994 than in 1980-1981 and prevalence of obesity (BMI>25 and >30 kg/m 2) also increased between the two periods (OR-22, 95% CI 1.6-3.0 and OR=1.4 95% CI 1.0-1.9, respectively). The rates of increase in BMI and in prevalence of obesity among Kuwaiti women were higher than in selected other countries.
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A study of pattern of body mass index (BMI) and prevalence of obesity in a Saudi population. Asia Pac J Public Health 1995; 8:59-65. [PMID: 9037799 DOI: 10.1177/101053959500800201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The present study was conducted to assess the pattern of body mass index (BMI) prevalence of obesity, and the association between obesity and other health-related problems in a Saudi population. The study was conducted in Queza district of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. A systematic random sample of Saudi nationals aged 16 years and above were selected (total number 1037; 611 males and 426 females). The study population was clinically examined and a specially-designed questionnaire was administered to obtain the information. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure and urine analysis were carried out. The collected data were analyzed using simple as well as multivariate statistical methods. It was observed that BMI significantly increased with age. The crude mean BMI was significantly greater in females compared to males. Prevalence of Grade I obesity among different age groups in males ranged from 15.7% to 43.0%, while in females the range was from 22.8% to 45.7%. Similar patterns for both genders were found for Grade II obesity (5.2%-18.9%; and 11.1%-47.8% respectively). Obesity was significantly associated with an increase in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, where increase in BMI by one unit increased systolic blood pressure by 0.617 mm Hg, and diastolic blood pressure by 0.484 mm Hg. This relationship held true even after allowing for other confounding factors. The present study concluded that obesity is a problem prevalent in the community of Queza district. It is recommended that health education programs be implemented through primary health care services in the community to prevent this problem.
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Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE To assess changes in the body mass index (BMI, weight (kg)/height2 (m2)) and in the prevalence of obesity in Swedish women during the 1980s. DESIGN Data from two successive cross sectional surveys were used. SETTING The whole of Sweden. SUBJECTS A total of 7419 women from a 1980-81 survey (response rate 84.6%) and 6306 women from a 1988-89 survey (response rate 80.3%), aged 16-84 years, and forming a representative sample of Swedish women. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS The results were based on self reported weight and height during interview. The mean BMI of the whole population, adjusted for age, education level, socioeconomic group, region, and nationality, increased by 0.17 kg/m2 (p = 0.0056) over the eight year period. The increase was particularly pronounced in the group aged 25-34 years (0.74 kg/m2; p < 0.0001, which corresponds to more than 2 kg for a woman 168 cm tall). The higher mean BMI was also reflected in the relative increase in the prevalence of obesity (BMI > 28.6 kg/m2) by 19% (odds ratio (OR) = 1.19; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.04, 1.37) and of the combination of overweight and obesity (BMI > 23.8 kg/m2) by 12% (OR = 1.12; 95% CI 1.03, 1.23) in the whole female population. CONCLUSIONS During the 1980s the mean BMI and the prevalence of overweight and obesity in adult Swedish women increased. An influence of the sociocultural environment on the body weight in women was stronger than that in men.
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