How Does Socioeconomic Status Affect Chinese Adolescents' Weight Status?: A Study of Possible Pathways

Although the prevalence of overweight and obesity among Chinese youth with higher socioeconomic status (SES) has been increasing, few studies have explored the mechanisms through which SES influences Chinese adolescents' weight status. Using data from the 2004, 2006, 2009, and 2011 China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS), this study aims to explore possible pathways through which SES may affect Chinese adolescents' risk of being overweight. Results from pathway analyses in a structural equation modeling framework indicate that indirect pathways, such as food intake and physical activities, partially explain the association between SES and Chinese adolescents' weight status, while weight-related attitudes do not. The pathways identified in this study can aid targeted intervention programs to alleviate the prevalence of adolescent obesity in China.