International obesity consortium pilot study of cross-sectional predictors of body mass index

• Grant number: 14/14217-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Doctorate
• Start date: February 02, 2015
• End date: September 01, 2015
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Nutrition - Nutritional Analysis of Population
• Principal Investigator: Julio Sergio Marchini
• Grantee: Priscila Giacomo Fassini
• Supervisor: Sai Krupa Das
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto (FMRP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: Tufts University, United States
• Associated to the scholarship: 12/22543-3 - ASSESSMENT OF ENERGY METABOLISM IN PATIENTS WITH SHORT BOWEL SYNDROME USING THE DOUBLY LABELED WATER METHOD, BP.DR

Abstract

Obesity is a growing health problem worldwide and has brought with it increased rates of chronic diseases. Currently, there are no multi-country studies devoted to examining the specific unique and common factors that are barriers to successful weight control, and this pilot study will be the first of its kind. Once collaboration is established and documented through this pilot study, the consortium will be seeking funding for larger adequately powered studies in the area of energy regulation and weight control.The aim of this feasibility study is to conduct a pilot cross-sectional study of predictors of energy intake and energy expenditure and determine barriers to successful weight control in five countries (Brazil, China, Finland, India, Kuwait) with high rates of obesity. As part of this work, we will use common methodology in all sites and conduct pilot studies relating to validation of methodology for measuring energy intake and energy expenditure.The central hypothesis of this study is that it will be possible to identify significant dietary, behavioral and lifestyle factors within country sites that predict energy intake and energy expenditure. Factors to be assessed that may predict dietary intake include dietary macronutrients and variety, hunger, eating patterns and behaviors, food environment, and the frequency of eating out. Energy expenditure will be assessed by physical activity monitors and self-reported activity levels as well as the doubly labeled water method. As part of this work, we will use common methodology in five countries and conduct pilot studies relating to validation of methodology for measuring energy intake and energy expenditure. (AU)