Correlates of diet quality in the Quebec population

To determine the correlates of a high-fat diet in urban, suburban and rural areas of Quebec, Canada.

A secondary analysis of data collected as part of a 5-year multi-factorial, multi-setting, community-intervention project.

Urban, suburban and rural settings of the province of Quebec, 1997.

Data were analysed from a sample of 5214 participants (2227 males, 2987 females). A food-frequency questionnaire was completed and a global index of food quality was calculated. Logistic regression was used to identify correlates of a diet high in total fats, saturated fat and cholesterol.

In both genders, lower level of education, smoking status, French and English languages compared with other languages spoken at home, and a rural environment were associated with poor diet quality. Having no intention to eat low-fat dairy products more often was associated with a high-fat diet. In men, obesity (body mass index >/=30 kg m(-2)) and absence of reported health problems were correlates of a high-fat diet, while, in women, lower physical activity was a correlate.

Future health interventions in Quebec should target people with low education, smokers and those living in a rural environment. Obese men and sedentary women should have access to specific dietetic resources.