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Articles by Bahauddin Zakariya University

From Wallets to Waistlines: Exploring the Link between Family Income (Wage Distribution) and Obesity Indices in Pakistani Populations

Published on: 15th April, 2026

Obesity represents a significant public health challenge on a global scale, with its prevalence increasingly linked to socio-economic factors, most notably family income. This study investigates the relationship between family income and several obesity measures specifically, the Body Shape and Size Index (BSSI), Body Mass Index (BMI), Body Surface Area (BSA), Ponderal Index (PI), Weight/Body Mass (BM), and Height within a sample of 9,906 respondents from Pakistan. Utilizing descriptive statistics and p - values, the analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how variations in income affect these obesity indicators, ultimately informing potential public health interventions. The findings reveal a complex, variable association between family income levels and obesity measures that differs by the specific obesity index examined. For BSSI, individuals in the lowest income bracket demonstrated higher values (indicating greater adiposity), while for BMI and weight, higher income brackets showed elevated values. These mixed findings suggest that the direction of association depends critically on which obesity measure is analysed. The study reveals that lower-income families are more likely to face barriers in accessing nutritious food, engaging in physical activity, and achieving favourable health outcomes. This situation is often exacerbated by economic constraints that drive families toward caloric-dense, nutrient-poor food choices. The implications of this research are far-reaching, emphasizing the need for targeted public health strategies to address obesity, particularly among economically disadvantaged populations. The study advocates for policies that enhance food security, improve access to health-promoting resources, and create supportive environments for physical activity. Through a nuanced exploration of these relationships, the research aims to contribute valuable insights to the field of public health, promoting equity in health outcomes and addressing the root causes of obesity in Pakistan.
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