Individuals from a lower socio-economic background have a higher risk of obesity. Researchers have examined what factors mediate this association.

The review included 28 studies in children and young people. The studies were conducted in a range of countries including Ireland and the United Kingdom. A number of mediators of the relationship between socio-economic status and obesity among children and young people were identified in the review. These included dietary behaviours and parental factors.

The factors found to mediate the socio-economic differences in obesity risk included:

• Increased sugary drinks consumption
• Decreased breakfast consumption
• Increased television viewing and computer use
• Increased parental body mass index
• Maternal smoking during pregnancy
• Decreased breastfeeding duration

For more information take a look at the key messages from our Childhood Obesity campaign.