Assessment of dietary patterns, physical activity and obesity among older US adults
Obesity in older adults results in premature declines in physical and mental health and cognitive functioning. Evidence shows that the incidence of obesity and chronic diseases are higher in rural areas than in urban areas. Furthermore, more older adults are concentrated in these rural areas. There is limited understanding of the behavioural factors driving increases in obesity in older adults in rural communities. Specifically, if differences in dietary behaviour between rural and urban settings contribute to elevated obesity rates. A study recently published in in PLOS One set out to firstly assess rural-urban differences in obesity rates in older adults, and secondly the relationship with dietary patterns.
Researchers used census data in a sample of respondents aged 65 years of age and above from the USA. Regression models were utilized to investigate if rural-urban disparities in obesity, and associations with risk factors of fruit consumption, green vegetable consumption and physical activity. The results revealed, consistent with earlier evidence, that obesity rates were highest in rural areas. In these rural areas, fruit consumption was the lowest. A negative association between obesity and fruit and green vegetable consumption was observed in urban but not rural settings. These findings illustrate the importance of considering urban-rural status when developing obesity prevention programs and strategies. Interventions need to address the unique barriers experienced between the two settings.
Read MorePredictors of weight gain in school children
Childhood obesity is a growing public health concern given the rising prevalence rates observed in both developed and developing countries. There are a multitude of health-related consequences that worsen into adulthood. Current estimates demonstrate that about 25% of children are overweight or obese. Given that obesity tracks into adulthood understanding why and how it emerges in early life is critical to developing effective preventative efforts.
In the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, a recent analysis explored predictors of BMI change, overweight and obesity in school children. This was conducted in a prospective manner using a cohort of Irish school children 6-10 years of age. Height and weight were assessed objectively and lifestyle factors through a questionnaire with parents. These measurements were assessed five years apart at baseline and follow-up. Logistical regression models were then run by the researchers to understand the associations.
Initial BMI was the main predictor of subsequent overweight and obesity in schoolchildren, followed by the socioeconomic status of the school. Schools in disadvantaged areas had higher rates of obesity. Alongside this processed food consumption, lower levels of participation in sport clubs and low fruit intake was associated with higher levels of obesity. These findings illustrate the need for programmes aimed at preventing obesity with a focus on early years and disadvantaged communities.
Read MoreAccess to green space plays a role in the development of diabetes
Socioeconomic characteristics of the urban environments and neighbourhoods are associated with rates of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Access to green space within an individual’s residential area has been shown to be beneficial for health and well-being however, there is limited understanding of the relationship with type 2 diabetes. The aim of this study in the BMJ Open was to investigate the relationship between green space, body mass index (BMI) and type 2 diabetes.
The study examined this relationship in adults (25-74 years of age) in a large German city through the Dortmund Health Study. Researchers used geographical information systems to develop three indicators of green space: proportion of green space, available recreation area per person and distance to the next park or forest. Through regression analyses researchers demonstrated no association between green space and BMI. However, a lack of green space and further distance from parks or forests resulted in increased incidence of type 2 diabetes. The results suggest the availability of green space is an important part of the residential environment playing a role in the development of type 2 diabetes. It is essential to consider the built environment individuals live in when developing prevention plans and actions.
Read MoreChildhood obesity inequalities in Britain are increasing over time
Across most high-income countries in the world socioeconomic inequalities in childhood obesity have been well documented. However, it is not clear how they have changed over time. Using Britain as an example, this study published in The Lancet, investigated how socioeconomic inequalities in childhood and adolescent weight, height, and BMI have changed over time.
The analyses demonstrated that from 1953 to 2015 socioeconomic associated inequalities in childhood obesity emerged and widened, while height differences became narrower. In 2001, at age 11 a there was a difference of 1.40 kg at the 50th weight percentile whereas a difference of 4.88 kg was observed at the 90th weight percentile. This finding that relative socioeconomic inequalities in obesity are worsening is consistent with other cross-sectional evidence including the UK’s national measurement program.
These significant changes show the impact of social changes on child and adolescent growth and development. The increasingly obesogenic environments in societies disproportionately affects disadvantaged children. These findings illustrate that the numerous policy initiatives implemented in Britain since 1991 have been insufficient and ineffective.
As these inequalities continue to widen there is clearly a need for new approaches to reduce differences in rates of childhood obesity between advantaged and disadvantaged populations. These trends are similar in many countries globally. Without effective interventions, inequalities seen in childhood and adolescence will continue to widen further throughout adulthood with significant health consequences.
Read MoreObesogenic factors and environments contributing to rising rates of obesity in Mexican children
Mexico has one of the highest youth obesity rates worldwide currently at 34% of all children and adolescents. This problem is rapidly worsening in Mexico with drastic consequences. There is limited understanding of the factors driving the rapidly increasing rates in Mexico. An understanding of determinants is critical to developing interventions, health programs and policies to effectively take on the crisis.
A recent review in Global Health Action set out to compile, describe, and analyse dietary conditions, physical activity, socioeconomic status, and cultural factors that create and exacerbate an obesogenic environment among Mexican youth. The authors approached this through a narrative review conducted across scientific databases and governmental reports.
The findings revealed a multitude of contributing factors including reduced healthy meal options at public schools, high rates of sedentary lifestyles among adolescents, lack of open spaces and playgrounds, socioeconomic deprivation, false or misunderstood sociocultural traditional beliefs, misconceptions about health, a high percentage of overweight or obese adults, and low rates of maternal breastfeeding. The factors identified are exacerbating the obesity problem in this population. From this evidence it is apparent that the average Mexican child is surrounded by a multitude of obesogenic factors driving rising rates of obesity. Measures to control these factors is drastically needed to stop continuation of the escalating rates.
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