Obesity and inequities in health in the developing world

This article from the International Journal of Obesity reports on a study which used data from national surveys in 37 developing countries to examine the social distribution of obesity among women of reproductive age. Findings showed that, although belonging to the poorest groups offers strong protection against obesity in low income countries, it becomes a risk factor for the disease in upper-middle income countries. The study revealed that obesity starts to fuel inequities in health once a certain level of economic development is attained (approximately when gross national product exceeds a value of $2500 per capita).

Suggested reasons for this shift in obesity to the poorest groups include lower levels of education and health-related knowledge among the poor, combined with greater difficulties accessing fruit, vegetables and whole-grain cereals, less leisure time, and fewer opportunities for physical exercise. Obesity among the poor adds to existing health inequities, while also substantially increasing the risk of non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and cancer, as well as mental health problems. The authors call for public education campaigns on the causes and effects of obesity, combined with social, economic and environmental changes to make healthier choices concerning diet and physical activity feasible for all socio-economic groups.