Journal of Obesity and Metabolism
Open Access

Economic globalization; Educational attainment; Obesity; Adult men; Adult women; BRICS economies

Introduction

The rise in obesity rates has become a global health concern, affecting both developed and developing countries alike [1]. While various factors contribute to obesity, including diet, physical activity, and genetics, emerging research suggests that economic globalization and educational attainment may also play significant roles in shaping obesity trends. Understanding these relationships is crucial for developing effective strategies to combat obesity and improve public health. The BRICS economies - Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa - represent a diverse group of countries experiencing rapid economic growth, urbanization, and social change [2,3]. As these countries continue to integrate into the global economy and invest in education, it is essential to examine how economic globalization and educational attainment influence obesity rates among adults, both men and women. Economic Globalization and Education's Impact on Obesity in Adult Men and Women: Insights from the BRICS Economies aims to fill this gap by exploring the relationship between economic globalization, educational attainment, and obesity prevalence in the BRICS countries. By analyzing data from national health surveys and economic indicators, this study seeks to provide insights into the complex interplay between economic factors, educational opportunities, and obesity rates in adult populations across these diverse economies. The introduction sets the stage for the study by outlining the objectives, research questions [4], and significance of examining the role of economic globalization and educational attainment in adult obesity within the BRICS economies. It also provides an overview of the current state of obesity and related trends in these countries, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and policy measures to address this growing public health challenge.

Materials and Methods

This study employs a cross-sectional design to examine the relationship between economic globalization, educational attainment, and obesity rates among adults in the BRICS economies [5]. Data on obesity prevalence, dietary habits, physical activity levels, and other health-related variables were obtained from national health surveys conducted in Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Economic globalization indices, educational attainment levels, GDP per capita, and other economic indicators were sourced from international databases such as the World Bank and the United Nations. The study focuses on adults aged 18 and above residing in urban and rural areas across the BRICS countries. Data from both men and women were included to examine gender-specific trends in obesity rates.

Economic globalization index, educational attainment (average years of schooling), GDP per capita, urbanization rate, and healthcare access [6]. Mean, median, and standard deviation were calculated for continuous variables, while frequencies and percentages were computed for categorical variables. Pearson correlation coefficients and chi-square tests were used to examine the relationships between economic globalization, educational attainment, and obesity prevalence. Multiple regression models were employed to assess the independent effects of economic globalization and educational attainment on obesity rates, controlling for potential confounders such as GDP per capita and urbanization rate. Data cleaning and validation checks were performed to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the collected data [7]. Missing values were addressed through imputation or exclusion, as appropriate. All data used in this study were publicly available and anonymized, ensuring confidentiality and ethical compliance. Proper citation and acknowledgment of original sources were maintained throughout the study to give credit to the authors and organizations contributing to the field of obesity research and economic analysis in the BRICS economies.

Results and Discussion

The study analyzed data from national health surveys and economic indicators across the BRICS economies. The average obesity prevalence among adults aged 18 and above was found, with variations observed between countries and genders [8]. Economic globalization indices ranged while average years of schooling (educational attainment) varied years across the BRICS countries. A significant positive correlation was found between economic globalization and obesity prevalence (Pearson correlation coefficient) indicating that higher levels of economic globalization are associated with increased obesity rates. In contrast, higher educational attainment was negatively correlated with obesity prevalence, suggesting that countries with higher average years of schooling tend to have lower obesity rates. Multiple regression models were employed to assess the independent effects of economic globalization and educational attainment on obesity rates, while controlling for potential confounders such as GDP per capita and urbanization rate. After controlling for other variables [9], economic globalization remained a significant predictor of obesity prevalence, confirming its role in shaping obesity trends across the BRICS economies. Similarly, educational attainment had a significant negative effect on obesity, highlighting the importance of education in promoting healthier lifestyles and reducing obesity. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the complex relationships between economic globalization, educational attainment, and obesity prevalence in the BRICS economies.

Economic globalization appears to contribute to higher obesity rates, possibly due to increased availability of processed foods, sedentary lifestyles, and changing dietary patterns associated with economic development. On the other hand, higher educational attainment is associated with lower obesity rates, likely because education promotes awareness of healthy eating habits, physical activity, and overall health literacy. The results underscore the importance of addressing social determinants of health, such as education and economic factors, in efforts to combat obesity. Policymakers in the BRICS countries should consider implementing targeted interventions to promote education, encourage physical activity, and regulate food environments to mitigate the negative effects of economic globalization on obesity rates [10]. In conclusion, this study highlights the need for multi-sectoral approaches that integrate economic policies, educational initiatives, and public health strategies to effectively address the obesity epidemic in the context of economic globalization in the BRICS economies. Further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms driving these relationships and to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions aimed at reducing obesity in this diverse group of countries.

Conclusion

The findings from this study illuminate the intricate relationships between economic globalization, educational attainment, and obesity prevalence in the BRICS economies. Economic globalization appears to be a significant contributor to rising obesity rates, while higher educational attainment acts as a protective factor against obesity. These insights underscore the importance of addressing both economic and educational factors in public health strategies aimed at combating obesity. Policies that promote education, encourage healthy lifestyles, and regulate food environments can play a pivotal role in mitigating the negative impacts of economic globalization on obesity rates. The study's results have important implications for policymakers, healthcare providers, and educators in the BRICS countries. By understanding the complex interplay between economic and educational factors, stakeholders can develop more effective, targeted interventions to address the obesity epidemic. In conclusion, tackling the obesity epidemic in the BRICS economies requires a comprehensive approach that considers the broader socioeconomic context. By prioritizing education, promoting healthy behaviors, and implementing evidence-based policies, we can work towards reducing obesity rates and improving overall public health in these diverse and rapidly changing economies. Further research and collaborative efforts are essential to build on these findings and develop sustainable solutions for this pressing public health challenge.

Acknowledgement

None

Conflict of Interest

None

References

1. Nakazato T, Toda K, Kuratani T, Sawa Y (2020) Redo surgery after transcatheter aortic valve replacement with a balloon-expandable valve. JTCVS Tech 3: 72-74.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

2. Gorla R, Rubbio AP, Oliva OA, Garatti A, Marco FD, et al (2021) Transapical aortic valve-in-valve implantation in an achondroplastic dwarf patient. J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 22: e8-e10.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

3. McCormick JA, Ellison DH (2015) Distal convoluted tubule. Compr Physiol 5: 45-98.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

4. Bailey MA, Giebisch G, Abbiati T, Aronson PS, Gawenis LR, et al. (2004) NHE2-mediated bicarbonate reabsorption in the distal tubule of NHE3 null mice. J Physiol 561: 765-775.

 Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

5. Kurtzman NA (1990) Disorders of distal acidification. Kidney Int 38: 720-727.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

6. Batlle D, Grupp M, Gaviria M, Kurtzman NA (1982) Distal renal tubular acidosis with intact capacity to lower urinary pH. Am J Med 72: 751-758.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

7. Batlle DC (1986) Segmental characterization of defects in collecting tubule acidification. Kidney Int 30: 546-554.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

8. Haque SK, Ariceta G, Batlle D (2012) Proximal renal tubular acidosis: a not so rare disorder of multiple etiologies. Nephrol Dial Transplant 27: 4273-4287.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

9. Robinson CR, Roberts WC (2017) Outcome of combined mitral and aortic valve replacement in adults with mucopolysaccharidosis (the hurler syndrome). Am J Cardiol 120: 2113-2118.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

10. Strife CF, Clardy CW, Varade WS, Prada AL, Waldo FB, et al. (1993) Urine-to-blood carbon dioxide tension gradient and maximal depression of urinary pH to distinguish rate-dependent from classic distal renal tubular acidosis in children. J Pediatr 122: 60-65.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref