Body Weight Perception
Weight Loss Study Aim
To study the perception of weight status, the accuracy of self-assessment
of weight status and weight control practices relative to the degree of
adiposity in Dutch men and women.
Weight Loss Study Subjects
2155 men and 2446 women, aged 20-65 y, of mostly caucasian origin, non-diabetic,
not pregnant or with cancer.
Weight Loss Study Measurements
Body weight, height, waist and hip, total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein
(HDL) cholesterol, blood pressure, self-administered questionnaire (including
questions concerning demographic variables), weight loss practices, dietary
intake, participation in sport as part of Dutch Monitoring Project on
Risk Factors for Chronic Diseases (MORGEN).
Weight Loss Study Results
In the study population, 53 percent of men and 39 percent of women were
overweight or obese. An association was shown between degree of adiposity
and participation in sport for both men and women, and dietary fat intake
in men. Of the subjects studied 56 percent of men and 52 percent of women
described their weight as appropriate. A degree of inaccuracy in the estimation
of relative body weight was observed. While dieting was prevalent, particularly
among women, there was a lack of weight control action on the part of
many overweight or obese individuals. This effect was most marked in men.
Body Mass Index (BMI) was the strongest determinant of weight perception
and dieting behaviours with some effect of educational level in men. Physical
activity was not widely used as a method of weight control.
Weight Loss Study Conclusion
These results point to a need for regular assessment of an individual's
relative weight and health risk, gender specific obesity treatments and
prevention strategies, and an emphasis in treatment and prevention of
obesity on physical activity
Source: International Journal of Obesity
(1999)
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