Empirical Analysis of Obesity Determinants and Prevalence – The Case of Canada

Abstract

Obesity has recently developed into a global epidemic. This study follows an integrated approach of examining the determinants and prevalence of obesity in Canada. A multimethod analysis revealed that almost two-thirds of Canadians are overweight or obese. It was found that males, the aged, the married, the less educated, physically inactive people, and people with poor self-rated health have increased probability of being overweight/ obese. Several regulatory policy options which could reduce the incidence of obesity and, in turn, increase social welfare and individual well-being are discussed. Keywords: obesity, determinants, prevalence, government policies and regulations