Urban–rural differences in overweight and obesity among 25–64 years old Myanmar residents: a cross-sectional, nationwide survey

ObjectivesTo investigate whether urban–rural location and socioeconomic factors (income, education and employment) are associated with body mass index (BMI) and waist–hip ratio (W/H-ratio), and to further explore if the associations between urban–rural location and BMI or W/H-ratio could be mediated through variations in socioeconomic factors.DesignCross-sectional, WHO STEPS survey of non-communicable disease risk factors.SettingUrban and rural areas of Myanmar.ParticipantsA total of 8390 men and women aged 25 to 64 years included during the study period from September to December 2014. Institutionalised people (Buddhist monks and nuns, hospitalised patients) and temporary residents were excluded.ResultsThe prevalence of overweight and obesity was higher in the urban areas and increased with increasing socioeconomic status (SES) score. Mean BMI was higher among urban residents (ß=2.49 kg/m2; 95% CI 2.28 to 2.70; p