Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2024
Advisor
Jeannette Manger
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between these social determinants of health and obesity to provide a better understanding of geographical differences in obesity rates. Methods All data was collected using countyhealthrankings.org. The variables that were studied included access to exercise, food insecurity, and life expectancy due to previous literature demonstrating probable association between these variables and the prevalence of obesity. Results Statistically significant increase in number of adults with obesity from 2016 to 2022 (32% to 37%). Statistically significant weak, negative correlation between access to exercise and obesity (r=-.306). Statistically significant weak, negative correlation between adult obesity rates and food environment index (r=-.388). Statistically significant moderate, negative correlation between life expectancy and adult obesity (r=-.522) Conclusion With an increase in obesity rates in Ohio from 2016 to 2022 and a clear correlation with decreased life expectancy, there continues to be an urgent need to address the “obesity epidemic” not only in Ohio counties, but nationwide, by taking a closer look at the variables associated with obesity.
Repository Citation
Bohne, W., & Onochie, A. (2024). Weight Health in the Modern Lens: Investigating the Intersectionality of Obesity. Wright State University. Dayton, Ohio.
