The Relationship between Demographic and Social Factors Associated with BMI among 25-60 Years Old Couples of Babol

Objectives: Overweight and obesity is one of the major problems that can cause diseases physical, mental and social in people. Several factors may affect higher BMI (Body Mass Index). This study aimed to identify factors influencing BMI among 25-60 years old couples of Babol.Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed in in spring 2014. The study population includes 25-60 year old couples who were selected by random cluster. Data collected through a researcher-made questionnaire containing 20 questions about demographic and social variables and 3 questions about for dependent variable. Validity and reliability of the questionnaire were approved. BMI was calculated and analyzed by SPSS18 software.Results: The mean age and BMI male were 42.6±6.3 year and 26.5±4.3 and female 39.6±5.8 year and 29.8±6.2. Out of 439 male, 195 (44.4) were overweight and 77 (17.5) were obese and out of 470 female, 186 (39.6) were overweight and 203 (42.2) were obese. BMI of male was significantly associated with personal car, education, diabetes and hypothyroid, smoking, watching TV and consumption of soft drinks (p<0.05). BMI of female was significantly associated with personal cars and motorcycles, education, job, watching TV, sports and abortion (p<0.05).Conclusion: The results of this study showed that some of demographic and social factors is effective in couples’ BMI and relation other factors with BMI of male and female is different. It is recommended to design and implement some intervention programs for men and women based on the influence.

کلیدواژه ها:

BMI of couples ، Overweight ، Obesity ، behavioral factors ، Social factors