The economics of obesity: low income groups more obese

New York, Feb 11 (UNI) People with decreased economic and social resources are more prone to obesity, a new study has claimed.

According to researchers, residents in low-income urban areas had limited physical activity and reduced access to stores selling healthy foods that had a negative effect on their weight.

The new report published in the journal Nutrition Reviews revealed that area's income level, the built environment and access to healthy food contributed to the continuing obesity epidemic.

A conceptual framework was prepared to describe pathways through which neighbourhoods might influence body weight.

The three inter-related layer framework included the influence of social factors, access to quality food and exercise, and individual factors including behavioral intentions. Each level had indirect and direct influences on behavioural choices and might ultimately impact weight.

Researchers Jennifer L Black said neighbourhood-level services and structures that affect physical activity behaviours and dietary choices were emerging as important and potentially modifiable loci for public health intervention.

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