Obesity Predicted to Spread in Developing Countries

The obesity epidemic plaguing the US could soon spread to developing countries, according to an international study. As more individuals in low-income countries begin to be able to afford TVs, computers and cars, obesity and type-2 diabetes may begin to become endemic.

The study, led by Scott Lear, professor at Simon Fraser University and published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, analyzed data on more than 150,000 adults from 17 countries - which ranged from high to low income nations. The individuals were questioned about ownership in addition to their physical health routine and diet.

Researchers found a 400 percent increase in obesity and a 250 percent increase in diabetes among owners of a household device in low-income countries, according to a press release announcing the findings.

The study went on to show that owning all three devices - a TV, computer and car - was associated with a 31 percent derease in physical activity, 21 percent increase in sitting and a 9 centimeter increase in waist size compared with those who owned no devices.

Researchers found no correlation in high-income countries, which suggests that the effects of owning these household items have already occurred, and are reflected in high rates of obesity and diabetes.

"With increasing uptake of modern-day conveniences- TVs, cars, computers - low- and middle-income countries could see the same obesity and diabetes rates as in high-income countries that are the result of too much sitting, less physical activity and increased consumption of calories," said Lear.

This correlation hints at "potentially devastating societal health care consequences" in these countries, Lear added. "Rates of increase of obesity and diabetes are expected to rise as low- and middle-income countries develop and become more industrialized," concluded the release.