Obesity, socioeconomic variables and eating habits in New Zealand

Abstract

SummaryEvidence from a national sample of New Zealand adults demonstrates a high prevalence of obesity, including severe obesity. Maori subcutaneous fat distribution is different from white, the former having relatively greater subscapular than triceps skinfolds compared to whites. Obesity is more prevalent in Maori. In whites, higher educational attainment tends to be associated with lesser indices of obesity and greater stature. The obese do not appear to have greater dietary energy intakes, but are less likely to consume breakfast than the non-obese.