WEIGHT-LOSS PRACTICES OF OVERWEIGHT ADULTS

Data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 1985-1988, were used to assess differences in weight-loss practices of overweight adults by sex and race. Data were available for 112 108 respondents from 21 states, aged greater-than-or-equal-to 18 y. Overweight was defined as body mass index greater-than-or-equal-to 27.3 for women and greater-than-or-equal-to 27.8 for men. Weight-loss practices were defined as increasing physical activity only, eating fewer calories only, increasing physical activity and eating fewer calories, and not trying to lose weight. The weight-loss practice most frequently reported by overweight women was increasing physical activity and eating fewer calories (blacks, 32%; whites, 33%). Overweight men most frequently reported not trying to lose weight (blacks, 55%; whites, 49%). Although the prevalence of overweight for black women was twice that for white women, weight-loss practices were similar for both groups. Prevalence of overweight was similar for black and white men but weight-loss practices differed slightly.