The epidemiological characteristics and risk factors of overweight,obesity and central obesity among Chinese urban adults

Objective To investigate the epidemiological characteristics and related risk factors of overweight,obesity and central obesity among Chinese urban adults,and to provide scientific basis for developing strategies for preventing and controlling obesity. Methods We did a cross-sectional survey among 79,012 urban adults selected from the health examination centers in Beijing and Chongqing by two stage cluster sampling in 2009.Their height,weight and waist circumference were measured.The prevalence of overweight,obesity and central obesity was calculated by ages,sexes and regions.Logistic regression analysis was used to explore the associated risk factors. Results The overall prevalence of overweight and obesity among the urban adults was 36.7% and 11.6%respectively.The prevalence of central obesity was 44.8% overall,and was 12.1% among adults with normal weight(BMI18.5kg/m2).The rates of overweight,obesity and central obesity were higher in males than in females,and the gender difference was gradually reduced with the increasing age.Little difference existed in the prevalence of overweight between Beijing and Chongqing,but the prevalence of obesity and central obesity was still higher in the north than in the southwest.Advanced age,living in the north and unhealthy life styles were all risk factors for obesity or central obesity. Conclusions The prevalence of overweight,obesity and central obesity among Chinese urban adults is high.Full attention should be given to the increasing trend of central obesity.