Economic Factors Linked to Disparities in Obesity, Diabetes Rates in Calif.

A new study from UC-Davis finds that residents who earn minimum wage are more likely to be obese than those with higher wages, the Stockton Record reports.

The study highlights the link between socioeconomic conditions and rates of obesity and diabetes in California counties.

In San Joaquin County, 70% of adults are overweight or obese, making it the heaviest county in California, according to the 2005 California Health Interview Survey. The county also has the highest rate of deaths associated with diabetes, with 35 deaths per 100,000 residents.

In comparison, Marin County has lower rates of obesity and diabetes than San Joaquin County, as well as significantly higher average income and education levels.

Only 44% of adults in Marin County are overweight or obese and the rate of deaths associated with diabetes is less than 10 deaths per 100,000 residents. Both rates are among the lowest in the state.