Obesity in the UK Armed Forces: Risk Factors

Objective: To assess the risk factors of obesity in terms of body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference in the UK Armed Forces. Methods: A quota sample from all UK services, of 2,448 men and 311 women aged 17-55 years. Results: The risk ratios for those with a BMI >= 27.5kg/m(2) and waist circumference >= 94 cm in men were 0.21 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.13-0.34) for non-whites compared to whites, 0.55 (95% CI, 0.38-0.78) for commissioned officers compared to lower ranks, and 0.13 (95% CI, 0.06-0.31) for Royal Marines compared to the Army, but increased with age, 58.2 (95% CI, 19.6-172.7). Risk ratios were usually nonsignificant between service-demographic factors for BMI >= 27.5 kg/m(2) and waist circumference <94 cm. Conclusions: The risk of obesity is highest in the Army and Royal Navy, whites, lower ranks, and older ages. BMI and waist circumference should be used together as measures of obesity.