Overweight and Obesity among Russian, Somali, and Kurdish Origin Populations in Finland

Abstract

Previous studies have shown the prevalence of overweight and obesity to be higher in foreign-born populations than their native counterparts. This study aimed at assessing the prevalence of overweight and obesity in Russian, Somali and Kurdish origin populations in Finland in comparison with the general population, and determining which background factors associate with overweight and obesity. Data from the Finnish Migrant Health and Wellbeing Study (Maamu) were used. Prevalence of overweight and obesity was as high as 73% in Somali and 65% in Kurdish origin women. In contrast, Somali origin men had a significantly lower prevalence of overweight and obesity than men in the general population. Health promotion measures must be addressed towards decreasing the prevalence of overweight and obesity particularly among Somali and Kurdish origin women. Foreign-born people need to be taken into account when planning and implementing obesity prevention programs.