Abstract
The aim of this study was to analyze the spatial distribution of excess weight in Brazil and its correlation with household food insecurity, purchase of foods by type of processing, and Human Development Index (HDI). An ecological study was undertaken using data from three surveys conducted by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics. Spatial analysis techniques were used to perform univariate and bivariate analysis. The prevalence of excess weight was 34.2% (CI 95% 33.8-34.6%). Excess weight showed a moderate and significant spatial autocorrelation (0.581; p = 0.01), with higher prevalence in states in the South, Southeast and Center-West regions. A positive moderate spatial correlation was shown between the prevalence of excess weight and HDI (0.605; p < 0.05) and purchase of ultra-processed foods (0.559; p < 0.05), while a negative moderate spatial correlation was observed between prevalence of excess weight and household food insecurity (-0.561; p < 0.05). It can be concluded that there is an unequal distribution of excess weight across Brazil. The highest prevalence rates were found in states in the Southeast, South, and Center-West regions, associated with higher HDI values and higher ultra-processed food purchases as a proportion of overall household food purchases.
Highlights
Excess weight is a nutritional problem with multidimensional determinants
The aim of this study was to analyze the spatial distribution of excess weight in Brazil and its correlation with household food insecurity, purchase of foods by type of processing, and Human Development Index (HDI)
A positive moderate spatial correlation was shown between the prevalence of excess weight and HDI (0.605; p < 0.05) and purchase of ultra-processed foods (0.559; p < 0.05), while a negative moderate spatial correlation was observed between prevalence of excess weight and household food insecurity (-0.561; p < 0.05)
Summary
Excess weight is a nutritional problem with multidimensional determinants Individual aspects of this problem, such as the nutritional quality of food consumed and energy expenditure, are strongly influenced by household factors like food insecurity and the type of food available for consumption[1]. In this respect, the social situation of households varies between neighborhoods, municipalities, states, and countries[2]. The prevalence of excess weight across territories, each with their own social dynamics, may vary and should be investigated to ensure the successful implementation of more specific and resolutive food and nutrition policies and actions. The spatial analysis of health data[5] is an important technique for understanding the dynamics of the prevalence of excess weight across territories
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