Obesity Patterns among Women in a Slum Area in Brazil
Author Information
Author(s): Alves João G., Falcão Romero W., Pinto Renato A., Correia Jailson B.
Primary Institution: Instituto de Medicina Integral Prof. Fernando Figueira
Hypothesis
High-energy intake and short stature contribute to the prevalence of obesity among women in a Brazilian slum.
Conclusion
The study found a high prevalence of overweight and obesity associated with high energy intake and short stature in a very poor community.
Supporting Evidence
- 29% of women were overweight and 17% were obese.
- Physical inactivity was found in 17% of the women.
- 44% had energy intake below the recommended dietary allowance.
- Short stature was present in 12% of the women.
Takeaway
In a poor area of Brazil, many women are overweight or obese because they eat a lot and are often shorter due to not getting enough nutrition when they were young.
Methodology
A cross-sectional survey using anthropometric measurements, the IPAQ, and a 24-hour diet recall questionnaire.
Potential Biases
Potential under-reporting of energy intake and limitations in distinguishing types of physical activity.
Limitations
Energy expenditure was not assessed, and dietary recall may lead to under-reporting of energy intake.
Participant Demographics
Women aged 20-60 years, mean age 42.6 years, 41% married, 40% mixed color, 82% religious, 75% unemployed.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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