Factors Accounting for Obesity and Its Perception among the Adult Spanish Population: Data from 1,000...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Obesity Research
• Health Psychology

Background:

• Obesity is a significant public health concern with complex contributing factors.
• Understanding self-perception of weight is crucial for effective public health interventions.
• Previous research indicates potential links between lifestyle and obesity, but self-perception requires further exploration in diverse populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the self-perception of weight and health status in the Spanish population.
• To explore the associations between family relationships, physical activity, nutritional habits, and sleep patterns with obesity.
• To identify key factors contributing to the presence of obesity in Spain.

Main Methods:

• A representative sample of 1,000 Spanish adults was surveyed using computer-assisted telephone interviews.
• Self-reported anthropometric data, including Body Mass Index (BMI), was collected.
• Statistical analyses, including multivariable logistic regression, were employed to identify significant associations.

Main Results:

• Only 17.7% of individuals with self-reported obesity perceived themselves as obese, with many reporting poor or fair health status.
• Obesity was strongly associated with older age, having a first-degree relative with excess weight, frequent snacking, and daily alcohol consumption.
• Dislike of healthy foods was a primary reason cited for not maintaining healthy eating habits among those with obesity.

Conclusions:

• The Spanish population demonstrates a low self-perception of obesity.
• Obesity is significantly associated with age, family history of weight issues, snacking habits, and daily alcohol consumption.
• Findings underscore the need for targeted public health strategies to improve obesity awareness and management in Spain.