Model-based small area estimates of overweight prevalence using sample selection adjustment

Using a hierarchical model with an adjustment for sample selection, we esti mate the overweight prevalence for adults, by states, using data from the T hird National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III). A two-s tage hierarchical model was selected to account for geographic variability of outcomes and to model possible overdispersion of estimates due to cluste r sampling. We compare our model-based estimates with design-based estimate s at the national level and obtain excellent agreement. We also provide a c heck of our model at the state level by comparing estimates with design-bas ed and synthetic estimates. Copyright (C) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.