Early Life Parental Loss and Obesity Risk in the Transition to Adulthood

• In Event: 4311 - Early Adversity and Adult Health

Abstract

A large proportion of U.S. young adults are classified as obese today, with African-Americans experiencing the greatest obesity prevalence. Various forms of disadvantage, including residential segregation, food insecurity, and exposure to chronic stress have been linked to obesity risk. This study examines an under-explored form of disadvantage in the form of early life parental loss, and investigates whether the disproportionate risk of losing a parent early in life experienced by African-Americans contributes to heightened obesity risk. Using data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1997 cohort, this study finds that early parental death significantly contributes to risk of obesity in the transition to adulthood.

Author

• Randi Saunders, University of Texas at Austin