Factors Explaining Obesity in the Midwest: Evidence from Data

Authors

Josh Matti, Indiana Wesleyan UniversityFollow
Hansol Kim, Indiana Wesleyan UniversityFollow

Abstract

This paper attempts to determine the factors explaining obesity in the Midwest by using standard OLS multiple regression analysis and cross-sectional data. We examine independent variables related to built environment and determine effects on obesity. This study finds that some factors influencing calories consumed, such as percent of restaurants that are fast food, are consistent with the prior literature. However, other factors, such as the number of fast food restaurants per 1000 people, yield surprising results. The results of this study suggest that obesity is a multifaceted issue that is not close to being fully explained.

Recommended Citation

Matti, Josh and Kim, Hansol (2013) "Factors Explaining Obesity in the Midwest: Evidence from Data," Undergraduate Economic Review: Vol. 10: Iss. 1, Article 1.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.iwu.edu/uer/vol10/iss1/1