Document Type

Master's Culminating Experience

Publication Date

12-14-2011

Abstract

Objectives. This study evaluates the association between Body Mass Index (BMI) and health insurance status in attendees at a local health fair. BMI was also compared among ages, gender, and races.

Methods. Descriptive analysis conducted using data collected at the “Celebrating Life and Health” health fairs between the years 2008 and 2011. Data for this study were collected at the BMI booth staffed by Wright State Boonshoft School of Medicine students.

Results. The results of this particular study do not demonstrate a statistical difference between obesity and health insurance status. Consistent with other research articles this study does show that race, age, and gender were linked to BMI.

Conclusions. This study linked multiple characteristics with the risk of being obese. Obesity has increased at an alarming rate over the past three decades. The associations of obesity with health insurance, gender, age, and ethnicity status are complex and dynamic. Understanding the specific cause or causes of obesity is essential in order to best direct efforts to eliminate or to curtail disease and death.

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