The association between BMI and self-reported health among a Brazilian sample: a cross-sectional study

To examine the association between Body Mass Index (BMI) and self-rated health status among a representative sample of the Brazilian population.

This study consists of a secondary analysis of the existing 2019 Brazilian National Health Survey (PNS). Logistic regression models were then used to examine the association between self-reported health status and BMI, while controlling for obesity-related medical conditions and socio-demographic characteristics.

The representative sample included 34,021 men and 34,430 women, comprising a total sample of 68,451. Men living with obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²) had, on average, a lower self-reported health status score (OR = 0.69, p < 0.01) compared to men within a healthy weight BMI range (18.5-25 kg/m²). Women living with obesity had, on average, a lower self-reported health status score (OR = 0.56, p < 0.01) compared to women within a healthy weight BMI range (18.5-25 kg/m²). There was also a statistically significant negative association (p < 0.01) between our obesity-related medical conditions and self-reported health for men and women. We also find some evidence of a non-linear association between BMI and health status for men.

The findings indicate that there is a statistically significant negative association between BMI and self-reported health for Brazilian men and women living with obesity. These findings reinforce the importance of addressing this growing public health challenge and the value of preventive measures and effective public health programs that focus on improving overall health and quality of life for individuals living with obesity.