Evolution of obesity and noncommunicable diseases in populations in the capitals of Brazil between 2006 and 2018

Abstract

Study design: Cross-sectional descriptive study. Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze the evolution of the prevalence of overweight, obesity and NCD, and they relationship with age and studying years, in Brazilian capitals. Method: Data from the VIGITEL Surveys, primarily for 2006 and 2018, were analyzed for 12 variables, using descriptive statistical procedures, frequency analysis and dispersion diagrams with insertion of trend curves and determination coefficients. Results: The results show a significant increase in the average BMI and the prevalence of NCD in the populations of the capitals of Brazil, although the self-perception of the general state of health presents an inexpressive change. The average BMI of the population is higher in the age group between 45 and 65 years old, and the prevalence of diabetes, high blood pressure and dyslipidemia has increased sharply since the age of 40, reaching its peak in the age group between 70 and 80 years. The more years of studies the population has, the lower the prevalence of obesity and NCD. Conclusions: Initiatives, both public and private, to reduce the risk factors that enhance the increase in obesity and NCD are necessary. Furthermore, the increase in the educational level of a population has the potential to promote significant improvement in the public health situation, reducing health expenditures and improving the quality of life of the population.