Possible obesity-related dietary behaviors and underlying factors among farmers and non-farmers in the southern regions of Aomori Prefecture

Abstract

[Objective] Obesity has become a problem even among farmers, who have relatively frequent opportunities for physical activity. This study aimed to explore the underlying factors of obesity-related dietary behaviors, by comparing farmers and non-farmers in Aomori Prefecture.

[Methods] Focusing on agricultural products in Aomori Prefecture, two study sites were selected from the southern region, where production of burdock and garlic is high; one was Tohoku Town, Kamikita District (hereafter, Tohoku Town) and the other was Towada City. A self-administered questionnaire survey was conducted for visitors to the "Ikiiki Industry and Culture Festival 2024" in Tohoku Town and the "Harvest Festival" at the Roadside Station Towada. Participants were men and women aged 18 years or older who provided informed consent.

[Results] Among farmers, 55.6% of males and 24.0% of females were obese. The most significant underlying factor of obesity-related dietary behaviors was "eating what I like, because having meals is my only pleasure (personal factor (reward))" for farmers and "putting importance on nutritional balance with being aware of future health" (personal factor (knowledge, attitude))" for non-farmers.

[Conclusion] This study, conducted in two municipalities in the southern region of Aomori Prefecture, suggests that the underlying factors of obesity-related dietary behaviors differ between farmers and non-farmers. These findings indicate the need to provide tailored support to farmers that promotes health-conscious dietary behaviors while preserving enjoyable mealtimes, as a primary prevention strategy for lifestyle-related diseases.