Prevalence of overweight and associated factors in adults: a population survey in Rio Branco, Acre State, Brazil, 2007-2008

Population studies in Brazil have shown an increased prevalence of overweight and obesity in adult populations in all regions of the country. The objective was to estimate prevalence and identify risk factors associated with overweight among adults in Rio Branco, Acre State, Brazil. The study included a cross-sectional population-based sample of 1,469 adults. Multivariate analysis was performed using Poisson regression, taking overweight (BMI >= 25kg/m(2)) as the dependent variable. Prevalence of overweight was 46.9%, higher among women. Overweight tended to increase with age in both men and women. Overweight was associated with socioeconomic, demographic, and morbidity variables such as hypertension and dyslipidemia. The high prevalence of overweight in adults of both sexes suggests a public health problem. Control measures and prevention of health risks associated with excess weight are necessary.