Prevalence of overweight, obesity, abdominal-obesity and short stature of adult population of Rosario, Argentina.

Abstract

The aim of this work was to assess the prevalence of overweight, obesity, abdominal-obesity and short stature among Rosario (Argentina) adult population. A cross-sectional nutritional survey was carried out in Rosario (2012-2013). A random sample (n = 1194) of adult population (18-70 years old) was interviewed. Anthropometric measurements and a general questionnaire incorporating questions related to socio-demographic and lifestyle characteristics, education level and physical activity were used. The current study detected a high prevalence of overweight and obesity among adult population in Rosario. The prevalence of overweight was 32.7% (43.9% in men and 27.6% in women, p < 0.001), of obesity was 23.5% (21.6% in men and 24.3% in women), and of abdominal obesity was 57.5% (63.5% in men vs.54.8% in women, p < 0.005). Multivariate analysis showed that the prevalence of overweight/obesity and abdominal obesity increased according the age and abdominal obesity decreased with high physical activity in men. In women prevalence of overweight/obesity, and abdominal obesity increased with age, marital status (married or coupled), presence of at least one child at home and low educational level. The prevalence of short stature was higher in women (16.4% vs. 8.4%, p < 0.001) and was related with age, overweight and abdominal obesity.