Women of Higher Socio-Economic Status Are More Likely to Be Overweight in Karnataka, India

Citation

Griffiths, Paula L. & Bentley, Margaret E. (2005). Women of Higher Socio-Economic Status Are More Likely to Be Overweight in Karnataka, India. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 59(10), 1217-1220.

Abstract

This study explores differences in body mass index (BMI), diet, and lifestyle between women of varying socio-economic status in Karnataka, India, using data from the National Family Health Survey 2 (n=4374), in-depth interviews (n=20) and six focus group discussions (n=40) completed in Bangalore. Predictors of overweight (BMI greater than or equal to25kg/m2) were modelled using logistic regression. A content analysis of the qualitative data was undertaken to understand behavioural factors affecting overweight. Prevalence of undernutrition was high for rural women (48%) and for overweight, prevalence was high in large urban areas (44%). In Bangalore knowledge of unhealthy foods was higher for richer women, although their diet and activity levels were less healthy than poorer women, who did not have the resources to purchase less healthy diets. Although some knowledge of the need for activity and healthy diets exists for wealthier Bangalore women, this does not translate into healthy behaviour, suggesting a need for obesity prevention programmes.

URL

http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/sj.ejcn.1602228

Reference Type

Journal Article

Year Published

2005

Journal Title

European Journal of Clinical Nutrition

Author(s)

Griffiths, Paula L.
Bentley, Margaret E.

ORCiD

Bentley - 0000-0002-1220-0208