An application of latent transition analysis in defining socioeconomic and obesity status in adults living in three counties in the central region of Iran

Abstract

Introduction: Socioeconomic status is a critical factor for human health, but it has a complex definition. In some previous studies, latent class analysis has been used as a method of Socioeconomic status characterization. In this study, we applied latent transition analysis to better understand how Socioeconomic status is related to obesity and to assess its changes over time. Methods: This study included 6504 people who participated in the Isfahan Cohort Study, aged over or equal to 35, living in three counties in the central region of Iran. Seven items were used as indicators for the socioeconomic variables which were evaluated three times over 12 years (2001-2013). The obesity status was considered as another item in the latent transition analysis model. Results: Education and average household income were the most effective items in the latent transition analysis classification. The model with three statuses (low, middle, and high) in all measurement times was selected. People in the middle classification of socioeconomic status were more likely to be obese in comparison with two other statuses. Almost all individuals remained in their first identified statuses over time. Conclusion: Latent transition analysis can help to summarize socioeconomic variables and to assess their transitions through time.