The obesity trends in general population of the republic of Serbia

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: It is known the obesity increases in general population of the Republic of Serbia; the average value of the BMI in adults was 26.0 and 26.7 (2000 vs. 2006). Proposed study, conducted in 2007 had been focused on the dietary behavior and consumption of dietary supplement among the adults, as well as gender differences. METHODS: An observational, prospective study was performed among adults (both, males and females) in form of short questionnaire. The questionnaire included 14 topics covering the following concepts: personal data, usage and knowledge of dietary supplements and other way for weight loss. A total of 993 adults were included, 224 (22.56%) who used dietary supplements and 769 (77.44%) who didn’t. The study was conducted in public pharmacy setting of three cities of Serbia (Belgrade, Novi Sad and Nis). RESULTS: The mean value of BMI for male was 26.25 and female 23.79, difference was statistically signifi cant. It is showed the BMI values were higher in all age groups of males compared to those of females, except in 60 years of age and older. In both cohorts groups the obesity became clinically significant in population older than 40 years of age. Of 224 examinees, only 10% used dietary supplements every day and 12% used it sparingly. The main purpose of their usage is improvement of physical appearance (49%), disease prevention (41%) and existing disease (10%). Previously to dietary supplements use the examinees tried to lose weight through diet (35%), exercise (24%), lower food portions without any diet (23%), more water consumption (11%), and 7% did not take any action. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude the outcomes of the proposed study have showed the somewhat awareness and behavior toward obesity in domain of disease prevention and gender difference (males have higher BMI values) exist in the general population of the Republic of Serbia.