Weight Loss Study - Denmark (1992 and
1998)
Weight Loss Study Aim
To elucidate how frequent weight-loss attempts are made, the methods used
to achieve weight loss, and the extent to which the outcome is positive.
Weight Loss Study Methods
Two independent interviews were conducted in 1992 and in 1998, each with
1200 randomly selected adult subjects. Each survey was designed to ensure
an equal distribution of age, gender, and geographical regions in Denmark.
Weight Loss Study Results
The proportion of subjects having attempted weight loss did not change
from 1992 to 1998, although the prevalence of overweight and obesity increased
from 1992 (overweight, 30 percent; obesity, 6 percent) to 1998 (overweight,
35 percent; obesity, 8 percent). Almost twice as many women (61 percent)
than men (32 percent) had attempted weight loss. Slimming occurred more
often in subjects <50 years (51 percent) than >50 years (39 percent),
although overweight and obesity were more frequent in the elderly. Over-the-counter
diet pills or meal replacements were associated with a negative outcome
of slimming treatment.
Weight Loss Study Issues
Approximately half of all adult Danes have attempted weight loss, particularly
women and individuals <50 years. This finding is inconsistent with
the fact that overweight and obesity are more prevalent in men and in
individuals >50 years. Changes in habitual diet and increased physical
activity are the most prevalent modes of slimming, whereas the use of
over-the-counter diet pills or meal replacements has decreased from 1992
to 1998. This development may have a positive impact on future body- weight-management
strategies.
Source: Bendixen H, Madsen J, Bay-Hansen
D, Boesen U, Ovesen LF, Bartels EM, Astrup A. Research Department of Human
Nutrition, the Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University, Rolighedsvej
30, DK-1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark. 2002
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