An Empirical Study of the Factors Inducing Weight Status and the Relationship between Smoking and Body Mass
An Empirical Study of the Factors Inducing Weight Status and the Relationship between Smoking and Body Mass

Summary/Abstract: Trends in body mass highlight public health concern in most parts of the world today, as the prevalence of overweight and obesity have increased relative risk for adverse effects on physical and psychosocial well being. The present study investigates weight status determinants by exploring the factors that affect body mass index. Meanwhile, the study examines the relationship between smoking behavior and body mass and interrogates for potential interaction between smoking and weight status. The empirical analysis uses cross sectional data covering a sample of 2946 individuals in Germany and employs univariate ordered probit models and a bivariate ordered probit model that computes full information maximum likelihood estimates. Consumers are distinguished in four categories according to body mass index reported and four categories in concordance to cigarette consumption patterns as well. The estimation reveals that smoking is positively associated with weight reduction, while both body mass index and smoking status are strongly influenced by demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, leisure activities, food consumption patterns, health status and psychosocial factors. Findings have implications for obesity and smoking control policy and prevention programs targeted to distinct groups needs. Moreover, educational and counseling initiatives are also suggested.

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