Demography and health inequalities

Age

The prevalence of obesity and overweight rise with age, in both men and women, from a relatively low level in the 16-24 age group to a peak at 65-74 (although obesity peaks slightly earlier in men). Older adults (aged 75+) have a lower prevalence of obesity.

Social class

Adults in social class V (unskilled manual) have a higher prevalence of obesity than those in social class I (professional). The gap between the two is significant, and has widened since 1997 in both sexes.

Ethnicity

Obesity prevalence varies between ethnic groups. Chinese and Bangladeshi groups have the lowest prevalence of obesity.