Birds of a Feather Flock Together: Correlation in BMI Categories in Long-Term Relationships

What is it about?

This paper explores three potential pathways explaining the correlation in BMI for partners in long term relationships. Specifically if partners choose each other based on similar BMIs or lifestyles which lead to a similar BMI. If after being in a long term relationship the costs of being healthy increase so people are more likely to be heavier. Finally, being in a partnership means that you have more opportunities for social occasions with food so both partners become heavier over time. Our findings show that there are some differences between men and women. However, choosing a partner with a similar BMI or lifestyle that influences BMI explains most of the correlation in partner BMI

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Why is it important?

Understanding why partners share a similar BMI is important for identifying modifiable factors that can be targeted by public health interventions to help all individuals lead a healthier lifestyle.