Twenty‐year changes in the prevalence of obesity among Finnish adults

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Abstract
Summary: We investigated changes in the prevalence of obesity among Finnish adults (aged ≥30 years) during a 20‐year period. Data were derived from two cross‐sectional nationally representative surveys (n = 13 844) in 1978–1980 and 2000–2001. Weight and height were measured using a standardized protocol. Obesity was defined as body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg m−2. Cut‐offs of BMI ≥ 35 kg m−2 and BMI ≥ 40 kg m−2 were also used. A 20‐year difference in the prevalence of obesity was from 11.3% to 20.7% in men and from 17.9% to 24.1% in women. In 1978–1980, 1.1% of men and 3.8% of women had a BMI at least 35 kg m−2. The corresponding prevalence was 3.9% in men and 6.8% in women 20 years later. The educational gradient in obesity diminished in 20 years because of the most prominent increase among highly educated men. Yet, 25% of men and 28% of women with low education are obese. Obesity increased in all age and educational groups over the 20‐year period. It was highest among women and individuals with the lowest education, but the increase was most striking among well‐educated men. A comprehensive public health strategy targeting the whole population and especially those with low education is urgently needed to halt the obesity epidemic.

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