Social and demographic inequalities in diet quality in a population-based study

Daniela De Assumpção,Marilisa Berti De Azevedo Barros,Semíramis Martins Álvares Domene,Regina Mara Fisberg

doi:10.1590/1678-98652016000200001

Abstract

Objective : To evaluate sociodemographic inequalities in the diet quality of the urban population of the city of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil. Methods: A population-based, cross-sectional study was performed using data from a health survey conducted in the city of Campinas in 2008-2009. Diet quality was evaluated using the Brazilian Healthy Eating Index Revised. A total of 3,382 individuals aged 10 years old and older were analyzed. Results : Brazilian Healthy Eating Index Revised scores increased with age and education level. Women consumed more vegetables, fruits, and milk, and less sodium, meat and eggs, oils, saturated and solid fats, alcohol, and added sugars than men. Scores for whole grains, vegetables, and fruits also increased with age and education level. Conclusion: These findings point to sociodemographic segments that are more vulnerable to an inappropriate diet and identify the need of strategies to increase the consumption of whole grains, dark green vegetables, fruits, and milk, and decrease the consumption of sodium, solid fats, alcohol, and added sugar.

Highlights

Brazilian Healthy Eating Index Revised scores increased with age and education level
Scores for whole grains, vegetables, and fruits increased with age and education level
These findings point to sociodemographic segments that are more vulnerable to an inappropriate diet and identify the need of strategies to increase the consumption of whole grains, dark green vegetables, fruits, and milk, and decrease the consumption of sodium, solid fats, alcohol, and added sugar

Summary

Introduction

An unhealthy diet is one of the four main behavioral risk factors related to the epidemic of Non-Communicable Chronic Diseases (NCD). In Brazil NCD accounted for 70% of the total mortality in 20122 Facing these diseases is a public health priority, recognized by the definition of a national action plan that aims, among others, to reduce average salt intake and increase fruit and vegetable intakes. The participation of fruits, vegetables, skim milk, and whole wheat bread in the diet is likely to increase, while the intake of sugary drinks, snacks, and sandwich cookies tends to decrease. A study with adolescents demonstrates higher consumption of candy, processed meat, and cookies in girls, and milk and soft drinks in boys. Higher education levels and income lead to both a higher intake of healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and milk, and a higher intake of unhealthy foods, such as soft drinks, pre-packaged meals, cookies, and processed meats

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion