Food consumption, obesity and abnormal glycaemic control in a Canadian Inuit community

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Nutritional Science
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Dietary and lifestyle factors are implicated in the rising rates of diabetes and obesity within the Canadian Inuit population.
• Understanding these factors is critical for developing targeted health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document dietary patterns, physical activity levels, obesity rates, blood glucose abnormalities, and diabetes prevalence in a Canadian Inuit community.
• To identify age-related differences in dietary habits and land-based activity.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 250 residents of Repulse Bay, Nunavut, including interviews on diet and physical activity, anthropometric measurements (weight, height), and laboratory analyses for blood glucose and insulin.
• Data were analyzed to compare dietary intake and physical activity between younger and older age groups and to determine prevalence rates of obesity and metabolic abnormalities.

Main Results:

• Younger Inuit (<48 years) consumed less country food and more processed snacks/sweet drinks compared to older adults.
• Physical activity was low, with only 35% engaging in land-based activities weekly. Obesity prevalence was high: 13% in children/adolescents (7-17 years) and 37% in adults (≥18 years).
• Among adults tested, 13% had blood glucose abnormalities, including 4% with type 2 diabetes. Fasting insulin levels were elevated in 6% of subjects.

Conclusions:

• The study reveals a significant public health concern in the Repulse Bay Inuit community, characterized by poor dietary choices, insufficient physical activity, high obesity rates, and a notable prevalence of type 2 diabetes.
• Urgent implementation of public health programs is recommended to address these health disparities and improve the overall dietary and health status of the community.