Role of socioeconomic indicators on development of obesity from a life course perspective

Abstract

Aims. Development of obesity is modified by several factors, including socioeconomic ones. We studied the importance of socioeconomic indicators on the development of obesity from a life course perspective. Methods. 2003 people born 19341944 in Helsinki, Finland, participated in clinical examinations in 20012004. Obesity was defined as body mass index (BMI) > 30 kg/m 2. Results. Prevalence of obesity was 22.3 in men and 27.2 in women. Lower educational attainment and lower adult social class were associated with higher BMI in both men (P =.03 and P