A nationwide survey of weight control practices among middle-aged New Zealand women.

ABSTRACT

AIM: To examine the prevalence of weight control practices in a nationwide representative sample of 40-50 year old New Zealand women. METHODS: In May 2009, a cross-sectional mail survey was conducted among 2500 women randomly selected from nationwide electoral rolls who were each mailed a self-administered questionnaire about their weight control practices, demographics and anthropometry. RESULTS: After excluding ineligible recipients, a 66% participation rate was achieved (n=1601). Thirty-nine percent of the sample (n=630) reported trying to control their weight, and among those who were not, 69% (n=674) were attempting to prevent weight gain. The weight control practices most commonly used were cutting down on meal/snack size (42%) and cutting down on fats/sugars (45%). Smoking, exercising in a driven or compulsive way, and fasting were used at least once a week as weight control strategies by 14%, 22% and 5% of women, respectively. Other potentially health-damaging practices (i.e. laxatives, diuretics, diet pills, vomiting) were employed by 1-4% of women. CONCLUSIONS: Most women reported weight control practices that were consistent with public health messages, however the use of smoking and exercising in a driven or compulsive way are of particular concern.