Changes in Body Mass Index in Canadians Over Five Years
Author Information
Author(s): Wilma M Hopman, Christine Leroux, Claudie Berger, Lawrence Joseph, Susan I Barr, Jerilynn C Prior, Mark Harrison, Suzette Poliquin, Tanveer Towheed, Tassos Anastassiades, David Goltzman
Primary Institution: McGill University
Hypothesis
What are the changes in body mass index (BMI) among Canadians over a five-year period?
Conclusion
Canadians have a higher BMI than recommended, with younger age groups experiencing weight increases that reverse after age 65.
Supporting Evidence
- Mean BMI for every age and gender group exceeded healthy weight guidelines.
- Most participants remained within their BMI classification over five years.
- Men under age 45 and women under age 55 gained approximately 0.45 kilograms per year.
Takeaway
This study shows that many Canadians are gaining weight, especially younger people, which can be bad for their health.
Methodology
Height and weight were measured at baseline and after five years to calculate BMI, with multiple imputation used for missing data.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias due to differences between participants and non-participants.
Limitations
Loss to follow-up affected the sample size, and multiple imputation has its own assumptions and limitations.
Participant Demographics
Participants were randomly selected Canadians aged 25 and older, with a higher number of women and older individuals included.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI reported for various estimates.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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