Changes of overweight and obesity in the adult Swiss population according to educational level, from 1992 to 2007.

ABSTRACT:

Background

In many high income developed countries, obesity is inversely associated with educational level. In some countries, a widening gap of obesity between educational groups has been reported. The aim of this study was to assess trends in body mass index (BMI) and in prevalence of overweight and obesity and their association with educational level in the adult Swiss population.

Methods

Four cross-sectional National health interview surveys conducted in 1992/93 (n = 14,521), 1997 (n = 12,474), 2002 (n = 18,908) and 2007 (n = 17,879) using representative samples of the Swiss population (age range 18-102 years). BMI was derived from self-reported data. Overweight was defined as BMI > or = 25 and <30 kg/m(2), and obesity as BMI > or = 30 kg/m(2).

Results

Mean (+/- s

SUBMITTER: Marques-Vidal P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2831837 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature