Prevalence of obesity and overweight and associated factors among financial institution workers in Accra Metropolis, Ghana: a cross sectional study

Regional and Sectorial Distribution of Cardiovascular Risk Factors Among Sub-Saharan Africa Workforce: A Systematic Review

The sub-Saharan African region is currently experiencing an unprecedented cardiovascular disease (CVD) epidemic, with CVD accounting for the highest mortality among adults in the region. Changing demographic profiles, lifestyle choices, and preferences for corporate work are identified as root causes of the CVD epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The primary objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of CV risk factors among different regions, countries, and work sectors in SSA. The secondary objective is to identify the work sector with the highest cluster or aggregate of CV risk factors in SSA. This systematic review reports the prevalence of CV risk factors among corporate workers in SSA between 2010 and 2024. Reputable platforms, such as the Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, PubMed, Medline, and Science Direct, were searched for relevant data. A total of 105 studies involving 76,027 participants from nine countries were analyzed. East Africa, Central Africa, West Africa, and Southern Africa had the highest prevalence of unhealthy diet (100%), physical inactivity (80%), high BMI (76%), and metabolic syndrome (MS) (55%), respectively. Ethiopia and South Africa had the highest prevalence of unhealthy diet (100%) and MS (55%), respectively, while Nigeria had the highest prevalence of both stress (71%) and poor sleep (79%). The healthcare work sector had the highest cluster of CV risk factors and the highest prevalence of unhealthy diet (80%), central obesity (51%), and high total cholesterol (36%); the education sector ranked highest in physical inactivity (75%); the administration sector ranked highest in current tobacco smoking (27%) and dysglycemia (17%); and the finance sector workers had the highest prevalence of stress (62%). The prevalence of most risk factors among the corporate workforce in SSA is high, with significant distribution variation across different regions, countries, and work sectors.

Prevalence and Mitigation of Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors Among the Corporate Workforce in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Cardiovascular disease (CVDs) is the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Corporate workplaces have been identified as important environmental factors that can increase the risk and severity of CVDs. Evidence indicates that the risk and severity of CVDs can be effectively reduced by mitigating modifiable behavioural and intermediate risk factors. Although the prevalence of CVDs and their associated risk factors is increasing in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), most published data from the region are hospital-based and may not be true estimates. This study investigated the prevalence and distribution of CVD risk factors among the corporate workforce in SSA and the effects of workplace wellness programmes (WWP) on these risk factors. Accordingly, a systematic search was performed using Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus and Science Direct for articles published between January 2010 and March 2024. A total of 105 studies (n = 76,027) across nine countries met the eligibility criteria and were analysed. The pooled prevalence of the risk factors was unhealthy diet (80%), high salt intake (32%), stress (58%), poor sleep (59%), physical inactivity (PI, 59%), alcohol consumption (29%), harmful alcohol consumption (26%), tobacco smoking (7%), khat chewing (6%), overweight (36%), obesity (23%), central obesity (44%), high blood pressure (29%), high total cholesterol (33%), high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) (41%), low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) (45%), hypertriglyceridaemia (17%), dysglycaemia (9%), and metabolic syndrome (MS; 45%). The highest prevalence of unhealthy diet and PI was recorded in East Africa and Central Africa, respectively, whereas West Africa had the highest prevalence of high body mass index (BMI). Ethiopia had the highest prevalence of unhealthy diets, whereas Nigeria had the highest prevalence of stress and poor sleep. The healthcare sector had the highest cluster of risk factors and the highest prevalence of unhealthy diets. Only 5.7% of the studies implemented WWP, which had significant mitigating effects on most risk factors. This study concluded that the prevalence of most modifiable CVD risk factors is high among the corporate workforce in SSA, which is higher than that in the general population in most cases, and a well-designed WWP can significantly mitigate these risk factors.

Central obesity and associated factors among public service employees in Adama Town in Ethiopia

The prevalence of obesity is rapidly increasing, contributing to 678 million obese adults and rapidly increasing in lower-income countries. This study assessed the magnitude of central obesity and associated factors among public service office employees in Adama Town in the Oromia Regional State in Ethiopia. An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from January 1 to February 26, 2020, among 590 public service employees. The data were collected by using interviewer-administered questionnaires and anthropometric measurements. The data were coded, entered, cleaned, and entered into Epi Info version 7, and subsequently exported to SPSS version 26 for statistical analysis. Binary logistic regression was used to check the associations between the explanatory and outcome variables. The adjusted odds ratio at a 95% confidence interval was used to estimate the strength of associations. A P value < 0.05 indicated statistical significance. The overall prevalence of central obesity among public service office employees was 24.2% (95% CI 20.9, 27.8). In a stratified analysis, the prevalence of central obesity was 29.9% in male and 14.9% in female employees. The multivariate analysis showed that using motorized transportation (AOR = 2.20, 95% CI 1.110, 4.385), eating food out of the home (AOR = 1.76, 95% CI 1.107, 2.800), drinking alcohol (AOR = 1.85, 95% CI 1.104, 3.128), being aged 33-42 years (AOR = 3.83, 95% CI 1.964, 7.472), 43-52 years (AOR = 4.34, 95% CI 2.151, 8.765) and 53 years and above (AOR = 10.33, 95% CI 3.783, 28.242), not engaging in moderate physical activity (AOR = 2.32, 95% CI 1.484, 3.631) and having a chronic illness (AOR = 1.97, 95% CI 1.177, 3.316) were statistically associated with central obesity among public service office employees in the study area. Nearly 25% of public service employees in the town had central obesity, which is a risk factor for metabolic syndromes. Mode of transportation, eating food out of home, drinking alcohol, age, level of physical activity, and presence of chronic illnesses were found to be independent predictors of central obesity. The public administration in the town should design a feasible preventive strategy to reduce the burden of obesity among public service employees in the study setting.

The Association between Marital Status and Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Obesity was included in the International Classification of Diseases in 1990 as a chronic disease characterized by the excessive accumulation of body fat and a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30 kg/m2.

AIM

This systematic review was aimed to examine the role of marital status in determining body mass index and the risk of obesity.

METHODS

We performed a systematic literature search using three databases (PubMed (Medline), Embase, and Google Scholar) with the search query.

RESULTS

Of the 105 studies included in the systematic review, 76 studies (72%) reported a greater risk of obesity in married individuals compared to unmarried individuals. A meta-analysis of 24 studies included a total population of 369,499 participants: 257,257 married individuals (40,896 of whom had obesity) and 112,242 comparison subjects (single, divorced, or widowed individuals, 15,084 of whom had obesity). Odds ratios for obesity found a significant pooled odds ratio for obesity in married individuals compared with controls (OR 1.70; 95% CI 1.38-2.10). The socioeconomic environment was not the same throughout the period of studies analyzed. The odds of obesity in married individuals during economic crises was greater than during the period between crises: OR 2.56 (95% CI 2.09-3.13) during crises vs. OR 1.55 (95% CI 1.24-1.95) between crises.

CONCLUSION

The results of this review confirm the importance of considering marital status in determining the risk of obesity.

Prevalence and risk factors of obesity among undergraduate student population in Ghana: an evaluation study of body composition indices

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a classified risk factor for several of the world's leading causes of death. In this study, we combined information contained in body mass index (BMI), total percentage body fat (TPBF) and relative fat mass (RFM) to estimate obesity prevalence and examine the risk factors associated with obesity.

METHODS

The study recruited 1027 undergraduate students aged between 16 and 25 years using a cross-sectional study design and two-stage stratified random sampling between January and April 2019 from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana. Demographic, lifestyle, and family history of chronic disease data, were collected using a structured questionnaire. Bioelectrical impedance, along with height, weight, age, and gender, were used to estimate BMI and TPBF. The RFM was calculated using a published equation. The TPBF and RFM ranges were evaluated based on standard BMI thresholds and an informative combined obesity prevalence estimated in a Bayesian framework. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate potential risk factors of overweight/obesity.

RESULTS

Concordance between BMI, TPBF and RFM for obesity classification was 84% among female and 82.9% among male students. The Bayesian analysis revealed a combined prevalence means of obesity of 9.4% (95%CI: 6.9-12.2%) among female students and 6.7% (95%CI:4.3-9.5%) among male students. The odds of obesity were increased between 1.8 and 2.5 for females depending on the classification index. A significant increasing trend of obesity was observed with university-level. A family history of obesity was associated with a high estimate of general, central, and high TPBF.

CONCLUSION

Using multiple adiposity indicators conjointly in a Bayesian framework offers a greater power to examine obesity prevalence. We have applied this and reported high obesity prevalence, especially among female students. University level and family history of obesity were key determinants for obesity among the student population.

Health Patterns across Adulthood: An Age-Based Investigation of the Nutritional Status, Homocysteine, and CoQ10 of Bank Staff

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate age-specific variations in the blood levels of micronutrients, homocysteine, and CoQ10, along with physical activity (PA) patterns, among 123 Austrian adult bankers in operational and frontline roles (mean age: 43 years; 50% female).

METHODS

Blood analysis was conducted to assess micronutrients and the serum concentrations of homocysteine and CoQ10. The micronutrient values in whole blood were compared to sex-specific reference ranges and categorized as below, within, or above them. The Global Physical Activity Questionnaire was utilized to assess PA patterns. Participants were classified as young adults (18-34 years), middle-aged adults (35-49 years), and older adults (50-64 years).

RESULTS

Significant age-based differences were found in participants' mean homocysteine levels (p = 0.039) and homocysteine categories (p = 0.034), indicating an increasing prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia with age. No significant difference between age categories was observed for sex, BMI, diet types, PA levels, sedentary behavior, and CoQ10 (p > 0.05). There was no significant age-based difference in the blood concentrations of most minerals and vitamins (p > 0.05), except for magnesium among females (p = 0.008) and copper among males (p = 0.042).

CONCLUSION

The findings offer initial evidence of the age-related differences in the health status of adult bankers, providing insights for customized approaches to occupational health that support the importance of metabolic health and overall well-being across adulthood.

10-year level, trends and socio-demographic disparities of obesity among Ghanaian adults-A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

The double burden of malnutrition has assumed severer forms in Low and Middle Income Countries (LMICs) arising from sharper increases in prevalence rates of overweight and obesity in these countries compared to higher income countries. Considering that LMICs already have fragile health systems, the rising obesity levels may just be a ticking time bomb requiring expeditious implementation of priority actions by all global and national actors to prevent an explosion of cardiovascular disease related deaths. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to provide a current estimate of obesity and overweight prevalence among Ghanaian adults and assess socio-demographic disparities following the PRISMA guidelines. We searched Pubmed with Medline, Embase, Science direct and African Journals Online (AJOL) for studies on overweight and obesity published between 2013 and January 2023. Applying a quality effects model, pooled mean Body Mass Index (BMI) and prevalence of overweight and obesity were obtained from 42 studies conducted across all three geographical locations of Ghana with a combined sample size of 29137. From the analysis, the mean BMI of adults in Ghana was 24.7 kgm-2 while overweight and obesity prevalence was estimated as 23.1% and 13.3% respectively. Temporal analysis showed sharper increases in overweight and obesity prevalence from 2017/2018. Mean BMI (Females: 25.3kgm-2 vrs Males: 23.1 kgm-2), overweight (Females: 25.9% vrs Males: 16.5%) and obesity (Females: 17.4% vrs Males: 5.5%) prevalence were higher among females than males. Gender differences in mean BMI and obesity prevalence were both significant at p<0.001. Urban dwellers had higher mean BMI than their rural counterparts (24.9kgm-2 vrs 24.4kgm-2). Overweight (27.6% vrs 18.2%) and obesity (17.3% vrs 11.0%) prevalence were also higher in urban areas than in rural areas. Body weight indicators for the various geographical areas of Ghana were; southern sector: 25.4kgm-2, 28.9% and 15.4%, middle sector: 24.8kgm-2, 26.4% and 16.2% and northern sector: 24.2kgm-2, 15.4% and 8.5% for mean BMI, overweight and obesity prevalence respectively. The southern part of Ghana was similar to the middle part in terms of mean BMI, overweight and obesity but higher than the northern part. We conclude that overweight and obesity prevalence in Ghana has risen to high levels in recent years with women and urban dwellers disproportionately more affected. There is a possible implication for increased cardiovascular diseases and a generally poor quality of life for the people. Evidence-based public health interventions are needed to reverse the current situation.

The Association of Physical Activity Level with Micronutrient and Health Status of Austrian Bank Employees

BACKGROUND

Favorable health benefits of an active lifestyle have been clearly documented within the context of occupational health. However, a knowledge gap exists regarding the monitoring and comparison of micronutrient status across varying levels of physical activity (PA). This study aimed to investigate the association of PA level with micronutrient status and the associated health biomarkers among a cohort of Austrian bank employees.

METHODS

Using a cross-sectional design, this study involved the participation of bank employees (n = 123; average age: 43 years; 49% males) from the federal state of Tyrol, located in the western part of Austria. To assess PA levels and sedentary behavior, the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ; developed by the WHO) was administered. Accordingly, participants were categorized into three groups: low PA, moderate PA, and high PA. Participants' blood samples were obtained to measure blood levels of micronutrients, homocysteine, and CoQ10. The values of vitamins and minerals in whole-blood were compared to sex-specific reference ranges and grouped into three categories: below, within, or exceeding the reference range.

RESULTS

The prevalence of a high PA level was 61%, while 18% of participants had a low PA level. Overweight/obesity was significantly less prevalent among participants with high PA levels (22%) compared to those with moderate (50%) and low (50%) PA levels (p = 0.045). No significant differences between PA levels were found for sex, age, diet type, homocysteine, or CoQ10 markers (p > 0.05). There was no significant PA-based difference in blood concentrations of most vitamins and minerals (p > 0.05), except for vitamin D (p = 0.001) among females, as well as selenium (p = 0.040) and vitamin B12 (p = 0.048) among males.

CONCLUSION

The present findings offer initial insights into the link between PA behaviors, micronutrient status, and health, highlighting potential implications in occupational health and lifestyle, specifically in developing tailored approaches based on PA levels.

Prevalence and demographic risk factors for overweight and obesity among healthcare workers at Uasin Gishu County hospital, Kenya

Background

Healthcare workers are under continual pressure to be an example to the public on Body Mass Index (BMI). While prior studies have focused on the general population, data on overweight and obesity is limited among healthcare workers.

Objective

This study aimed at determining the prevalence of and demographic risk factors associated with overweight and obesity among healthcare workers.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was done on healthcare workers aged 20 years and above comprehensively sampled in Uasin Gishu County hospital. A WHO step-wise questionnaire and anthropometric measurements were used to collect data and logistic regression was performed among variables.

Results

The mean age and BMI were 36.96±9.96 years and 27.18±5.04 respectively. 63.4% of respondents had their BMI above 25 kg/m2, 35% were overweight and 28.4% were obese. Females were more likely to become overweight and obese than males with an odds ratio [OR] of 2.8 (95% confidence interval [Cl] = 1.3-6.0, P = 0.008). Age, education and physical activity were found related to BMI and gender was found to be associated with BMI.

Conclusion

High prevalence of obesity among healthcare workers is of concern, especially on the issue of central obesity. Intervention among the health workers should be considered.

The prevalence and determinant of overweight and obesity among residents aged 40-69 years in high-risk regions for upper gastrointestinal cancer in southeast China

Being overweight or obese is one of the public health concerns worldwide, and its prevalence is gradually increasing. Obesity has been proven to be associated with some cancers, including upper gastrointestinal cancer (UGC). However, studies on the prevalence of obesity among residents of areas at high risk of UGC in China are minimal. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of obesity and its influencing factors among people aged 40-69 years (high-risk population) in high-risk areas for UGC in Jiangsu Province, southeast China. This cross-sectional study involved 45,036 subjects aged 40-69 years identified in the Rural Early Diagnosis and Treatment of UGC Project database in Jiangsu Province from 2017 to 2021. Differences in prevalence across gender and age were assessed using the Chi-square test. Using a multinomial logistic regression model, we examined independent risk factors for overweight/obesity and their gender and age differences. The prevalence of overweight, obesity, and overweight/obesity varied based on the standards used: Chinese standard (42.1%, 11.9%, and 54.0%) and WHO standard (34.7%, 4.7%, and 39.4%), respectively. Being overweight was more common in men than women, while obesity was more common in women than men. Age of 50-59 years, married, household size of 7-9, drinking, soy products, pickled food, and hot food intake were positively associated with overweight/obesity. Females, 60-69 years, higher education level, household size of 4-6, annual family income of more than 60,000 CNY, smoking, and fresh fruit intake were negatively associated with overweight/obesity. Stratified analysis showed that the effects of age, education and meat, egg and dairy products on overweight/obesity were different across gender. The impact of fresh fruit and vegetables on overweight/obesity was also heterogeneous between the younger (40-59 years) and older (60-69 years) groups. In conclusion, the prevalence of overweight and obesity is high among adults aged 40-69 years from high-risk areas for UGC of Jiangsu Province, southeast China. Independent influencing factors of being overweight/obese included gender, age, marital status, education, household size, annual family income, smoking, drinking, fresh fruit, soy products, pickled food and hot food intake, and may vary by gender and age. Screening-based interventions should be considered to control obesity levels among screened participants. Besides, heterogeneity of influencing factors across subgroups could be focused on to improve intervention effectiveness.

Modifiable determinants of central obesity among the rural black population in the DIMAMO HDSS, Limpopo, South Africa

Background

Central obesity is a leading risk factor for cardiometabolic diseases, in which body fat accumulates to a particular extent, and may negatively impact on health. The prevalence of abdominal obesity has increased over the last 10 years and currently surpasses that of overall obesity. There is a scarcity of data on the determinants of central obesity, especially among populations residing in rural Africa. The aim of the present study was thus to determine sociodemographic and lifestyle factors that are associated with central obesity.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional, retrospective study. The present study used secondary data from the AWI-Gen phase 1 study. The study comprised 791 participants, of which 242 were men and 549 were women aged 40 years and above. The participants were selected by convenient sampling. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 27. A comparison of proportions was performed using the chi-square test, while a comparison of means was performed using an unpaired Student t-test. The association between sociodemographic and lifestyle factors with central obesity was analyzed using bivariate correlation, partial correlation, and binary regression analysis, and the statistical significance was set at a p-value of <0.05.

Results

The proportion of central obesity in the total population was 59.9%, and significantly more women were centrally obese (79.6 vs. 15.3%, p = <0.001) as compared to men. Married status correlated positively and significantly with central obesity in both bivariate and partial correlations. Moreover, binary logistic regression further confirmed the positive association between married status and central obesity. Single status correlated negatively and significantly with central obesity. The correlation remained unchanged even after controlling for age and gender. Binary logistic regression showed that unemployment correlated significantly with central obesity. The proportion of smokers was also significantly higher in participants without central obesity than in those with central obesity (87.2 vs. 34.0%, p = <0.001). Smoking correlated negatively and significantly with central obesity in bivariate and partial correlations. In addition, binary logistic regression further confirmed the negative association between smoking and central obesity.

Conclusion

The present study shows that in this population, central obesity is determined by gender, unemployment, and marital status.

Physical inactivity among corporate bank workers in Accra, Ghana: Implications for health promotion

INTRODUCTION

Any type of activity that results in caloric expenditure has the potential to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases; nonetheless, most people, especially office workers, are physically inactive. This study sought to evaluate the extent of physical inactivity and its determinants among the staff of selected banks in Accra, Ghana.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study involving 219 banking staff randomly selected from five commercial banking institutions in Accra, Ghana. Demographic data was collected with a structured questionnaire. Physical inactivity was assessed using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire. Study associations were determined using univariate analysis, and multivariate logistic regression models with adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) estimated.

RESULTS

Two hundred and nineteen (219) participants were recruited, out of which 56.6% were males and 43.4% were females. The mean age (± SD) of the participants was 40.0±7.9 years. Physical inactivity was observed in 179 (81.7%) participants. The following were independently associated with physical inactivity: travel-related activities (AOR, 0.151; 95% CI, 0.059-0.384; p<0.001); working in the bank for 6-10 years (AOR, 4.617; 95% CI, 1.590-13.405; p = 0.005); and working in the bank for 11 years and above (AOR, 2.816; 95% CI, 1.076-7.368; p = 0.035).

CONCLUSION

Physical inactivity was very high among bankers. Travel-related activities reduced physical inactivity whiles working at the bank for more than six years increased physical inactivity. Thus, promoting regular physical activity, frequent monitoring, and implementation of other appropriate healthy lifestyle intervention strategies are vital to reduce risk of early onset disease conditions associated with physical inactivity in this population.

Prevalence of overweight, obesity, and associated factors among healthcare workers in the Gaza Strip, Palestine: A cross-sectional study

Background

Overweight and obesity are multifactorial conditions that are prevalent in developing and developed countries. They are emerging as a significant public health concern among healthcare workers (HCWs). We aimed to estimate the prevalence of overweight and obesity and their associated factors among HCWs in the Gaza Strip.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted to recruit 1,850 HCWs aged 22 years and older. Interviews were carried out to collect sociodemographic information, nutritional information, and physical activity. Anthropometric measurements [height, weight, and waist circumference] were conducted with the HCWs. The body mass index was computed to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity. Chi-square, t-test, and one-way ANOVA were used to compare the variables, and logistic regression was used to examine the associated factors of overweight and obesity.

Results

The combined prevalence of overweight and obesity among HCWs was 65%. The result of logistic regression showed the risk of being overweight and obesity increased within the age group of 40-49 years (OR = 3.20; 95% CI: 2.37-4.32; P < 0.001). Male participants had more risk of obesity than female participants (OR = 1.77; 95% CI: 1.45-2.15). Married participants had a significantly higher risk of being overweight and obese (OR = 2.52; 95% CI: 2.05-3.28; P = 0.001). Increased monthly income was significantly associated with the risk of being overweight and obese (OR = 2.16; 95% CI: 1.22-3.83; P = 0.008). In addition, hypertension (OR = 2.49; 95% CI: 1.65-3.78; P < 0.001) and type 2 diabetes (OR = 2.42; 95% CI: 1.21-4.85; P= 0.012) were associated with overweight and obesity. Finally, a family history of NCDs was associated with overweight and obesity (OR = 1.69; 95% CI: 1.38-2.07; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study showed a high prevalence of overweight and obesity among HCWs. Age, monthly income, marital status, known hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and eating habits were associated with the prevalence of overweight and obesity compared to other variables that were not associated with overweight and obesity such as profession, vegetables, fruit consumption, and physical activity. Urgent action is needed to tackle overweight and obesity among HCWs.

Prevalence, determinants, and association of overweight/obesity with non-communicable disease-related biomedical indicators: A cross-sectional study in schoolteachers in Kabul, Afghanistan

Overweight/obesity constitutes a major risk factor for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), whose global prevalence is growing rapidly, including in Afghanistan. However, the effects of risk factors on NCDs have rarely been studied in the educator workforce. Therefore, the objective of this study is to determine the prevalence, determinants, and association of overweight/obesity with NCD-related biomedical indicators among schoolteachers in Afghanistan. The sample comprised 600 schoolteachers aged 18 years and above. We conducted questionnaire interviews, anthropometric measurements, and blood biochemistry tests. The main explanatory variable was overweight/obesity (body mass index ≥ 25.0 kg/m2). NCD-related biomedical indicators were the outcome variables. Poisson regression models were applied to investigate the association between overweight/obesity and outcome variables. The prevalence of overweight/obesity was 58.2%, which was significantly higher in women, those aged 41-50 years, married participants, and those with 10-20 years of working experience than in their counterparts. After adjusting for sociodemographic variables and lifestyle behaviors, overweight/obesity was significantly associated with hypertension (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 1.83, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.33-2.51); elevated levels of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (aPR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.01-1.79), total cholesterol (aPR = 1.67, 95% CI:1.14-2.44), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (aPR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.10-1.50), and triglycerides (aPR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.57-2.50), and having three or more comorbidities (aPR = 1.90, 95% CI: 1.47-2.47). Our findings demonstrated a high prevalence of overweight/obesity among schoolteachers. In addition, we found significant associations of overweight/obesity with a higher prevalence of hypertension; elevated serum levels of HbA1c, total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglycerides; and comorbid conditions in schoolteachers. The findings highlight the need for worksite interventions that promote weight control among schoolteachers with overweight/obesity to reduce the burden of NCDs.

Prioritizing Workplace Health Promotion Policy to Address High Blood Pressure and Obesity in a Public University in the Northern Region of Ghana

The International Labour Organization (ILO) recommends the engagement of the world of work in providing comprehensive and effective prevention strategy for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Workers are at risk of developing 1 or more cases of NCDs due to their exposure to risk factors at work. The ILO suggests that the work-related risk factors can be prevented by improving working conditions and integration of workplace health promotion programs. Workplace health promotion policies promote workers general health, improve working environment, work practices, and reduces the risks of common NCDs including hypertension (high blood pressure) and obesity among employees. A number of studies have described the increasing trends of hypertension and obesity among civil servants but are limited in assessing the availability and effectiveness of workplace health promotion policies to address them. We assessed the availability and effectiveness of workplace health promotion policy to address the prevalence of high blood pressure in a public university in the Northern Region of Ghana. Using a mixed method study design, 191 administrative staff were recruited and in-depth qualitative interviews conducted among 5 key informants. The study found significant number of participants with elevated and high blood pressure and overweight and obesity with no functional workplace health promotion at the time of the study. We therefore recommend the prioritization and development of a workplace health policy to reduce the prevalence of high blood pressure and obesity among staff of the university using the integrative workplace health promotion model.

Small area variations and factors associated with blood pressure and body-mass index in adult women in Accra, Ghana: Bayesian spatial analysis of a representative population survey and census data

BACKGROUND

Body-mass index (BMI) and blood pressure (BP) levels are rising in sub-Saharan African cities, particularly among women. However, there is very limited information on how much they vary within cities, which could inform targeted and equitable health policies. Our study aimed to analyse spatial variations in BMI and BP for adult women at the small area level in the city of Accra, Ghana.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

We combined a representative survey of adult women's health in Accra, Ghana (2008 to 2009) with a 10% random sample of the national census (2010). We applied a hierarchical model with a spatial term to estimate the associations of BMI and systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) with demographic, socioeconomic, behavioural, and environmental factors. We then used the model to estimate BMI and BP for all women in the census in Accra and calculated mean BMI, SBP, and DBP for each enumeration area (EA). BMI and/or BP were positively associated with age, ethnicity (Ga), being currently married, and religion (Muslim) as their 95% credible intervals (95% CrIs) did not include zero, while BP was also negatively associated with literacy and physical activity. BMI and BP had opposite associations with socioeconomic status (SES) and alcohol consumption. In 2010, 26% of women aged 18 and older had obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2), and 21% had uncontrolled hypertension (SBP ≥ 140 and/or DBP ≥ 90 mm Hg). The differences in mean BMI and BP between EAs at the 10th and 90th percentiles were 2.7 kg/m2 (BMI) and in BP 7.9 mm Hg (SBP) and 4.8 mm Hg (DBP). BMI was generally higher in the more affluent eastern parts of Accra, and BP was higher in the western part of the city. A limitation of our study was that the 2010 census dataset used for predicting small area variations is potentially outdated; the results should be updated when the next census data are available, to the contemporary population, and changes over time should be evaluated.

CONCLUSIONS

We observed that variation of BMI and BP across neighbourhoods within Accra was almost as large as variation across countries among women globally. Localised measures are needed to address this unequal public health challenge in Accra.

Association between alcohol intake and overweight and obesity: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of 127 observational studies

Several studies have assessed the relationship between alcohol intake and overweight/obesity; however, the reported results are inconsistent. Therefore, the present systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of observational studies was designed to investigate the association between alcohol intake and general and abdominal obesity among the adults. Literature search was conducted in the PubMed/Medline and Web of Science databases up to August 2020. Odds ratio (OR), risk ratio (RR), or hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were used to pool effect size. To conduct dose-response meta-analysis, amount of alcohol intake was classified into three categories including light (<14 g/d), moderate (14-28 g/d), and heavy (>28 g/d). In the present study, 127 eligible studies were included. In cohort studies, there was no significant association between alcohol drinking and risk of overweight (OR: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.46 to 1.89), obesity (OR: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.52 to 1.37), overweight/obesity (OR: 1.15, 95% CI: 0.84 to 1.58), and abdominal obesity (OR: 1.13, 95% CI: 0.90 to 1.41). In cross-sectional studies, alcohol intake was associated with the increased odds of overweight (OR: 1.11, 95% CI: 1.05 to 1.18), overweight/obesity (OR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1.11 to 1.37), and abdominal obesity (OR: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.09 to 1.29); but not obesity (OR: 1.03, 95% CI: 0.95 to 1.12). Results of dose-response analysis indicated that heavy alcohol drinking was positively associated with odds of overweight (OR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.24), overweight/obesity (OR: 1.32, 95% CI: 1.16 to 1.51), and abdominal obesity (OR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.12 to 1.38) compared to non- or light alcohol drinking. There was no publication bias among studied on outcomes of interest. In conclusion, our results revealed alcohol drinkers, especially heavy alcohol drinkers, had increased odds of overweight, overweight/obesity, and abdominal obesity than non-alcohol drinker or light alcohol drinkers among cross-sectional studies but not cohort studies.

Prevalence of obesity and associated factors in Benue State, Nigeria: A population-based study

Background:

The prevalence of obesity has risen to over 650 million adults in 2016, and accounts for 41 million deaths globally. It is a major contributor to the burden of noncommunicable diseases. We determined the prevalence and associated factors of obesity to inform policy decisions toward developing robust prevention and management strategies.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted a population-based cross-sectional study in July 2017 among 1265 adults in urban and rural communities in Benue State. We used multistage sampling technique in selecting the participants. The WHO standardized and validated tool were used to collect information on sociodemographic and anthropometric measurements. We calculated age standardized prevalence of obesity and determined factors associated with obesity using logistic regression at 5% level of significance.

Results:

The age standardized prevalence of obesity was 11.1% (rural 4.2%, urban 14.3%). The odds for obesity was higher among females (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 3.4; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.27–4.99), those with tertiary education (aOR: 3.3; 95% CI: 1.61–6.95), married (aOR: 2.1; 95% CI: 1.37–3.36), and those residing in urban areas (aOR: 3.0; 95% CI: 1.73–5.05) compared to rural dwellers.

Conclusions:

The prevalence of obesity was high among adults in Benue State. It is more prevalent among females, married, educated, and urban dwellers. Interventions targeted at healthy lifestyle choices should be directed at these populations for effective control.

Prevalence and factors associated with overweight and obesity in selected health areas in a rural health district in Cameroon: a cross-sectional analysis

Background

Overweight and obesity are major public health problems worldwide, with projections suggesting a proportional increase in the number of affected individuals in developing countries by the year 2030. Evidence-based preventive strategies are needed to reduce the burden of overweight and obesity in developing countries. We assessed the prevalence of, and factors associated with overweight and obesity in selected health areas in West Cameroon.

Methods

Data were collected from a community-based cross-sectional study, involving the consecutive recruitment of participants aged 18 years or older. Overweight and obesity were defined according to the WHO classification. The statistical software R (version 3.5.1, The R Foundation for statistical computing, Vienna, Austria) was used for statistical analysis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to assess independent factors associated with overweight and obesity, and obesity.

Results

Records of 485 participants were included for analysis. The age and sex-standardized prevalence of overweight, obesity, and overweight and obesity were 31.1% (95% CI, 27.0–35.2), 18.9% (95% CI, 14.9–22.9), and 50.1% (95% CI, 45.7–54.6), respectively. In multivariable analysis, being female (adjusted OR [aOR] = 2.79, 95% CI = 1.69–4.63), married (aOR = 3.90, 95% CI = 2.23–6.95), and having secondary or tertiary education (aOR = 3.27, 95% CI = 1.77–6.17) were associated with higher odds of overweight and obesity, while current smokers had lower odds of overweight and obesity (aOR = 0.37, 95% CI = 0.16–0.82) when compared to their respective counterpart. Compared to their respective reference categories, being female being (aOR = 3.74, 95% CI = 2.01–7.30), married (aOR = 2.58, 95% CI = 1.37–5.05) and having secondary or tertiary education (aOR = 2.03, 95% CI = 1.00–4.23) were associated with higher odds of obesity after adjustments for confounding.

Conclusion

We observed a high prevalence of overweight and obesity in this study. The odds of overweight and obesity was higher in females, married participants, and those with higher levels of education. Community-based interventions to control overweight and obesity should consider targeting these groups.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-10403-w.

Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity, and Its Associated Factors Among Health-care Workers, Teachers, and Bankers in Arusha City, Tanzania

BACKGROUND

Tanzania is one of the developing countries experiencing an increasing trend of overweight and obesity among adults. Working adults have been identified as a high-risk group more exposed to the predictors of overweight and obesity than the general population. However, limited studies have been done in this group. This study aimed to identify the prevalence of overweight and obesity and its associated risk factors among health-care workers, teachers, and bankers in Arusha city council.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among health-care workers, teachers, and bankers. A total of 305 working adults aged 18-60 years participated in the study. A modified World Health Organization (WHO) STEPwise approach for chronic disease risk factor surveillance was used to collect data about socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyle behaviors, dietary practices and anthropometric measurement. The Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) was used to collect information about level of physical activities. The anthropometric measurement and level of physical activities were calculated and ranked according to WHO guidelines.

RESULTS

Overall, 68.9% (31.1% overweight and 37.8% obese) of working adults were overweight or obese. Age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR=7.73; 95% CI: 1.93-30.87]), gender (AOR=2.60; 95% CI: 1.30-5.21), marital status (AOR=2.47; 95% CI: 1.11-5.50), years spent with the current institution (AOR=4.59; 95% CI: 1.38-17.80), using private car or public transport to and from work (AOR=2.43; 95% CI: 1.10-5.39) and sedentary work (AOR=2.43; 95% CI: 1.04-5.71), were significant factors associated with overweight or obesity.

CONCLUSION

The study identified a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity in Tanzania compared with previous studies. The results from this study are useful for the education sector, financial institutions and health sector on designing workplace wellness programs to reduce the burden of overweight and obesity among this working category.

The association between combined oral contraceptive use and overweight/obesity: a secondary data analysis of the 2016 Ethiopia Demographic and Health Survey

OBJECTIVES

In this study, we aimed to assess the association between combined oral contraceptive (OC) use and overweight/obesity among Ethiopian adult women of reproductive age.

DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

The data were extracted from the 2016 Ethiopia Demographic and Health Survey; these data were collected from nine regions and two city administrations. We analysed the data from a total of 11 018 women aged 18-49 years who met eligibility criteria.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

We employed WHO criteria to classify the body mass index of women. Specifically we tested the association between combined OC utilisation with overweight/obesity after controlling for confounding variables.

RESULT

The prevalence of combined OC utilisation was 1.7% and the prevalence of overweight/obesity was 8.6% among adult women of reproductive age. Use of combined OC increases the odds of overweight/obesity by two times among adult women of reproductive age after controlling for potential confounders (adjusted OR=1.902 (1.064-3.399)).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion there is significant association between combined OC use and overweight/obesity. The findings have important implications for policymakers to design evidence based policy approachs to obesity prevention for women and at large for government to recognise the negative consequences of combined OC on women health.

Prevalence and correlates of overweight and obesity among adolescents in northeastern China: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

To estimate the prevalence of overweight/obesity among adolescents and evaluate the associated factors in this group in Changchun City in northeastern China.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study of 1955 adolescents aged 11-18 years was conducted in Changchun City using stratified cluster sampling. Parents and caregivers of children completed the questionnaires as requested without objection. The questionnaire included demographic characteristics and anthropometric parameters. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to analyse the relationship between overweight/obesity and related factors.

RESULTS

In total, the prevalence of overweight was 12.7% (male 17.4%; female 10.1%) and of obesity was 4.9% (male 8.8%; female 3.1%) in Changchun, Jilin Province. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was higher in boys than in girls (p<0.001). Multivariate logistic regression showed that overweight and obesity were significantly associated with male sex (OR=1.91, 95% CI 1.48 to 2.47), eating fresh fruits more than 2 days per week (OR=1.41, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.84) and eating quickly (OR=1.37, 95% CI 1.06 to 1.78). Students who were not picky (OR=0.69, 95% CI 0.53 to 0.90) were less likely to be overweight, and adolescents whose father was overweight or obese (OR=0.67, 95% CI 0.52 to 0.86) or whose mother was overweight or obese (OR=0.72, 95% CI 0.52 to 0.99) were less likely to be overweight.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of overweight and obesity among adolescents in Changchun has been high in recent years, and the prevalence was higher among boys than among girls. Sex, dietary habits (weekly frequency of fruit consumption, picky eating and slowness in eating) and parental weight were important factors for overweight and obesity in adolescents. Further research should be conducted on the health of adolescents in China, and further intervention measures should be implemented to reduce the prevalence of overweight/obesity.

Factors Associated with the Nutritional Status among Male Workers of Iron and Steel Industries in Bara District, Nepal

Background

Overweight and obesity are major serious public health problems, since their prevalence is accelerating rapidly not only in developed but also in developing countries. The aim of this study was to find out the factors associated with the nutritional status of the industrial workers in Bara District of Nepal.

Methods

An industry-based analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among the 271 male workers using pretested semistructured questionnaires, food frequency questionnaire, 24-hour recall method, and anthropometric measurement after obtaining informed consent from the workers. For the categorical independent variables, bivariate and multivariate regression tests were used for the analysis, and for numerical independent variables, Student's t-test was used. A P value less than 0.05 was considered significant. Ethical approval was taken from the Research Committee of the College of Applied Food and Diary Technology (CAFODAT).

Results

Overweight /obesity was observed among 27.3% of the participants of which 22.1% were overweight and 5.2% were obese. Age (OR: 2.54; 95% CI: 1.346-4.823); ethnicity, Brahmin/Chhetri (OR: 6.14; 95% CI: 1.971-19.123) and Madhesi (OR: 4.641; 95% CI: 1.534-14.04); and smoking (OR: 4.165; 95% CI: 1.972-8.80) were associated with nutritional status of industrial workers. Additionally, food frequency (OR: 2.232; 95% CI: 1.101-4.522), dietary diversity, and total calorie intake were also significantly associated with nutritional status of industrial workers.

Conclusions

The study has indicated that more than one-fourth of workers of iron and steel industries in Bara District of Nepal are overweight or obese. Different sociodemographic and socioeconomic factors and lifestyle-related factors were associated with overweight and obesity. There is need for programs for industrial workers focused on nutrition education to raise awareness about nutrition-related problems and risk factors.

Lifestyle and nutritional status of employees of a chain of banks in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

BACKGROUND

The stressful work environment, long working hours and sedentary activities inherent to jobs in banks reflect on the employees' lifestyle with consequent effects on their health.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the lifestyle and nutritional status of employees of a chain of banks in Pelotas, Brazil.

METHOD

Cross-sectional descriptive study conducted with employees aged 18 or older of a chain of banks in Pelotas. We collected information on the demographic, economic, nutritional and lifestyle profile by means of questionnaire Individual Lifestyle Profile (ILP) and anthropometric measurements. Statistical analysis was performed with software STATA® 12.0.

RESULTS

The sample comprised 82 employees, most of whom were male (67.1%). We detected poor dietary habits (high fat-rich food and sweets and low fruit/vegetable intake) and sedentary behavior. The results for domains preventive behavior, social relationships and stress control pointed to a healthy lifestyle: the participants were usually aware of their blood pressure and cholesterol levels, succeeded in keeping calm and reported to actively seek friendships. Overweight and elevated waist circumference prevailed. Fat-rich food and sweets intake, knowledge and control of blood pressure and cholesterol and waist circumference significantly differed as a function of sex.

CONCLUSION

The results evidenced poor dietary habits and physical activity, in addition to overweight, which point to the need for actions to improve the lifestyle and nutritional status of the analyzed population of workers.

Epidemiology, Predisposing Factors, Biomarkers, and Prevention Mechanism of Obesity: A Systematic Review

Background. Globally, obesity is becoming a public health problem in the general population. Various determinants were reported by different scholars even though there are inconsistencies. Different biomarkers of obesity were identified for the prediction of obesity. Even though researchers speculate the factors, biomarkers, consequences, and prevention mechanisms, there is a lack of aggregate and purified data in the area of obesity. Summary. In this review, the epidemiology, predisposing factors, biomarkers, consequences, and prevention approaches of obesity were reviewed. Key Messages. The epidemiology of obesity increased in low-, middle-, and high-income countries. Even if the factors vary across regions and socioeconomic levels, sociodemographic, behavioral, and genetic factors were prominent for the development of obesity. There are a lot of biomarkers for obesity, of which microRNA, adipocytes, oxidative stress, blood cell profile, nutrients, and microbiota were promising biomarkers for determination of occurrence of obesity. Since the consequences of obesity are vast and interrelated, multidimensional prevention strategy is mandatory in all nations.

Childhood obesity in urban Ghana: evidence from a cross-sectional survey of in-school children aged 5-16 years

BACKGROUND

Childhood obesity is a growing public health concern in many low-income urban settings; but its determinants are not clear. The purpose of this study is to assess the prevalence of childhood obesity and associated factors among in-school children aged 5-16 years in a Metropolitan district of Ghana.

METHODS

A cross-sectional quantitative survey was conducted among a sample of 285 in-school children aged 5-16 years. Pre-tested questionnaires and anthropometric data collection methods were used to collect data. Descriptive, bivariate, binary and multivariate logistic regression statistical techniques were used to analyse data.

RESULTS

Some 46.9% (42.2% for males and 51.7% for females) of the children were overweight. Of this, 21.2% were obese (BMI falls above 95th percentile). Childhood obesity was higher in private school (26.8%) than public school (21.4%), and among girls (27.2%) than boys (19%). Factors that increased obesity risks included being aged 11-16 as against 5-10 years (aOR = 6.07; 95%CI = 1.17-31.45; p = 0.025), having a father whose highest education is 'secondary' (aOR =2.97; 95% CI = 1.09-8.08; p = 0.032), or 'tertiary' (aOR = 3.46; 95% CI = 1.27-9.42; p = 0.015), and consumption of fizzy drinks most days of the week (aOR = 2.84; 95% CI = 1.24-6.52; p = 0.014). Factors that lowered obesity risks included engaging in sport at least 3times per week (aOR = 0.56; 95% CI = 0.33-0.96; p = 0.034), and sleeping for more than 8 h per day (aOR = 0.38; 95% CI = 0.19-0.79; p = 0.009).

CONCLUSION

Higher parental (father) educational attainment and frequent consumption of fizzy drinks per week may increase obesity risks among in-school children aged 5-16 years in the Metropolitan district of Ghana. However, regular exercise (playing sport at least 3 times per week) and having 8 or more hours of sleep per day could lower obesity risks in the same population. Age and sex-appropriate community and school-based interventions are needed to promote healthy diet selection and consumption, physical activity and healthy life styles among in-school children.

Prevalence of overweight and obesity and associated risk factors among adult residents of northwest China: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

Overweight and obesity have been shown to be related to multiple chronic conditions, leading to a heavy economic burden on society throughout the world. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of overweight and obesity and determine potential influencing factors among adults in Xinjiang, northwest China.

DESIGN

A community-based observational study.

SETTING

The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University.

METHODS

In total, 14 618 adult participants (7799 males; 6819 females) aged over 35 years were recruited from the Cardiovascular Risk Survey conducted in 2010. Data were obtained from face-to-face interviews and physical examinations. The sample was used to estimate the prevalence of overweight (body mass index (BMI) 24-28 kg/m²) and obesity (BMI ≥28 kg/m²) in Xinjiang Province. Influencing factors were analysed based on statistical methods.

RESULTS

In Xinjiang Province, the overall prevalence of overweight was 36.5% (male 40.1%; female 33.4%), and the prevalence of obesity was 26.5% (male 27.2%; female 25.8%). The prevalence of both overweight and obesity were higher in women than in men (p<0.001). The main influencing factors for overweight and obesity were sex, age, race, marital status, education level, occupation, smoking, drinking, hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidaemia (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study estimated that the prevalence of overweight and obesity among adult residents of Xinjiang Province, northwest China, was high. These data suggest that efforts related to the prevention and control of overweight and obesity should be a public health priority in northwest China.

Determinant factors of overweight/obesity among federal ministry civil servants in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a call for sector-wise occupational health program

OBJECTIVE

Civil servants are disposing individuals to sedentary lifestyle and, may lead to overweight and obesity. Thus, the purpose of the study was to identify factors associated with overweight and obesity among employees in Ethiopia ministries.

RESULT

Respondents who were age 45 years and above [AOR = 11.56, 95% CI 3.75-35.56], 35-44 years [AOR = 11.17, 95% CI 3.89-32.06] and 25-34 [AOR = 3.08 95% CI 1.07-8.83] were more likely to be overweight/obesity as compared to those who were in age category of 18-24 years. The study also found that ever alcohol consumption [AOR = 2.27, 95% CI 1.23, 4.16] was associated with increased risk of overweight and obesity as compared to non-consumers. Another risk factor was adult who did not practice ten minutes' walk per day, more likely to overweight and obesity [AOR = 11.28, 95% CI 5.96-21.36] as compared to the counter parts. Similarly, participants who did not involve physical activity (sport) [AOR = 2.42% 95% CI 1.36-4.30] were 2.42 times more likely to overweight and obesity as compared to those who had physical activity. Sector-wise occupational health program should be developed in work placed to decrease identified risk factors.

Physiological, anthropometric parameters, and balance skill response of healthy bankers to fitness training

Sedentary lifestyle as a predisposing factor of chronic diseases like hypertension, diabetes, stroke and obesity is a common phenomenon in the banking job. Studies suggest that fitness training improves health of bankers but has not been established among Ghanaian bankers. This study examined the physiological, anthropometric parameters, and balance skill responses of relatively healthy bankers to fitness training. Twelve bankers aged 28 to 55 years (36.41±7.16 years) in Kumasi completed a 6-month fitness training program (FTP) of 30-min gym workouts and 1-hr swimming per session. Physiological, anthropometric parameters, and balance skill variables assessments were conducted in three trials: pretraining, midtraining and post-FTP. FTP caused significant decrease in pre-post systolic blood pressure (P=0.001), diastolic blood pressure (P=0.000), heart rate (P=0.006), waist circumference (P= 0.007), waist-to-hip ratio (P=0.007), and bone density (P=0.038). There was significance decrease in body mass index (P=0.047) between pre- and midtraining status. Weight significantly decreased among the three trials (P=0.017). Pre-post opened (P=0.043) and closed (P=0.015) eye balance skills increased significantly. Effects of FTP were significantly higher in female (P<0.05). Participants who were at the stage 1 and 2 hypertensions pretraining became normotensive posttraining. Six months FTP has beneficial effects on the physiological, anthropometric parameters, and balance skill of relatively healthy bankers.

The physical activity level and aerobic capacity estimation (VO2max) among the administrative staff of the Pars Special Economic Energy Zone (Assaluyeh, Iran) with different BMIs

Background The purpose of this study was to examine the level of physical activity (PA) and maximal aerobic capacity (VO2max) among office workers of the Pars Special Economic Energy Zone in Iran with different body mass indexes (BMIs). Materials and methods This research was descriptive, and a correlation of variables was applied as its execution method. Administrative staff of two centers were randomly selected from 20 to 30 administrative centers of the Pars Special Economic Energy Zone, Assaluyeh, Iran, and included 294 male employees who were willing to participate in this research and who met the inclusion criteria (being in the age range of 20-60 years, lacking specific diseases, and who had enough physical fitness to do PA) who were purposefully selected. Results The age-adjusted means for the PA score (7.93 ± 1.12) and VO2max (48.66 ± 6.95) mL/min/kg were calculated. After adjusting for other variables, significant difference was found between BMI and age (β = 0.20; p = 0.005), BMI and VO2max (β = 0.302; p = 0.001), as well as BMI and the total PA score (β = -0.304; p = 0.045). Conclusions The results of this study showed low levels of PA (work, exercise and leisure) and respiratory capacity in the administrative staff of the oil and gas industry, which is associated with overweight and obesity.

HUBUNGAN ASUPAN ZAT GIZI MIKRO DAN AKTIVITAS FISIK DENGAN KEJADIAN OBESITAS SENTRAL PADA PEKERJA BAGIAN PERKANTORAN

Background: Central obesity is a condition where there is a lot of fat accumulating in the body especially around the abdomen. Intake of micronutrients such as calcium and water that are lacking and low physical activity in office workers can cause central obesity.Objectives: This study aims to analyze the relationship between micronutrient intake (calcium and water) and physical activity with central obesity in office workers in PT X, Lamongan.Methods: This study was carried out using a analytic observational method using a cross sectional study design with a quantitative approach. The research sample was 44 office workers in PT X, Lamongan who were taken randomly. Data collected included measurements of waist circumference, measurements of body weight and height, 3x24 hour food recall and physical activity questionnaire. Analysis of the data in this study used a Chi-square test with 95% CI (α = 0.05).Results: This study showed that micronutrient intake consisting of calcium intake (p = 0.486) and water intake (p = 1.000) was not associated with central obesity. Meanwhile, there is a relationship between physical activity and central obesity in office workers (p = 0.028, OR = 5.40).Conclusions: Central obesity in office workers has a relationship with physical activity. However, micronutrient intake (calcium and water) is not associated with central obesity in office workers. Workers should routinely monitor their weight and abdominal circumference together with physical activities such as exercise to prevent central obesity.ABSTRAKLatar Belakang: Obesitas sentral adalah suatu keadaan dimana terdapat banyak lemak yang menumpuk di dalam tubuh khususnya di sekitar perut. Asupan zat gizi mikro seperti kalsium dan air yang kurang serta rendahnya aktivitas fisik pada pekerja bagian perkantoran dapat menyebabkan terjadinya obesitas sentral.Tujuan: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis hubungan antara asupan zat gizi mikro (kalsium da air) dan aktivitas fisik dengan kejadian obesitas sentral pada pekerja bagian perkantoran di PT X, Lamongan.Metode: Penelitian ini dilaksanakan dengan metode observasional analitik menggunakan desain studi cross sectional dengan pendekatan kuantitatif. Sampel penelitian sebesar 44 pekerja bagian perkantoran di PT X, Lamongan yang diambil secara acak. Data yang dikumpulkan meliputi pengukuran lingkar perut, pengukuran berat badan dan tinggi badan, food recall 3x24 jam dan kuesioner aktivitas fisik. Analisa data dalam penelitian ini menggunakan uji Chi-s     quare dengan CI sebesar 95% (α = 0.05).Hasil: Penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa asupan zat gizi mikro yang terdiri dari asupan kalsium (p=0,486) dan asupan air (p=1,000) tidak berhubungan dengan kejadian obesitas sentral. Sementara  itu, terdapat hubungan antara aktivitas fisik dengan kejadian obesitas sentral pada pekerja bagian perkantoran (p=0,028, OR=5,40).Kesimpulan: Obesitas sentral pada pekerja bagian perkantoran memiliki hubungan dengan aktivitas fisik. Akan tetapi, asupan zat gizi mikro (kalsium dan air) tidak berhubungan dengan obesitas sentral pada pekerja bagian perkantoran. Pekerja sebaiknya melakukan pemantauan terhadap berat badan dan lingkar perut secara rutin bersamaan dengan melakukan aktivitas fisik seperti berolahraga untuk mencegah terjadinya obesitas sentral.

Impact of exercise intensity on oxidative stress and selected metabolic markers in young adults in Ghana

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different levels of exercise on markers of oxidative stress and selected metabolic parameters in Ghanaian young adults.

Results

Significant increases in a marker of oxidative stress malondialdehyde and antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase and uric acid were observed in the exercisers compared with the inactive group (p < 0.05). Total cholesterol and high density lipoprotein levels were significantly different (p < 0.05) between the two groups. Positive associations between exercise intensity, antioxidant concentration and malondialdehyde were observed within the exercise group for vigorous exercise with regards to uric acid, superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde (r = 0.512, p = 0.004; r = 0.810, p = 0.001; r = 0.715, p = 0.001) respectively and moderate exercise vs malondialdehyde (r = 0.841, p = 0.001) compared to the inactive group. Exercise participants performed more vigorous exercise (p < 0.001), moderate exercise (p < 0.001) and more walking (p < 0.001) compared with the inactive group while the inactive group exhibited more sitting (p < 0.001). The study provides a first report on the risk associated with increase in oxidative stress and the importance of walking as a health promotion intervention among young Ghanaian adults.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13104-018-3758-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Overweight/obesity among adults in North-Western Ethiopia: a community-based cross sectional study

BACKGROUND

Nowadays adulthood overweight/obesity is an emerging public health problem in developing countries. There is no information on magnitude and contributing factors of adulthood overweight/obesity in Ethiopia, particularly in North West region of the country. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess magnitude and contributing factors of adulthood overweight/obesity in North West region of Ethiopia.

METHODS

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from September1, 2015 to November 30, 2015 in northwest region of Ethiopia particularly Bahir-Dar city and its rural districts. A total of 1484 adult participants were recruited in the study. Stratified multistage followed by systematic random sampling technique was employed to select participants. Overweight/obesity was determined using center for diseases control cutoff points. A multivariable binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify factors associated with overweight/obesity. Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with the corresponding 95% Confidence Interval (CI) was calculated to show the strength of association.

RESULTS

A total of 1405 adults were participated in the study with a response rate of 94.7%. This study indicated that 11.3 (95% CI: 9.6, 13.1) adults were overweight and obese of which about 9.3% and 2% of adults were overweight and obese, respectively. The higher odds of being Overweight/Obese were noted among urban residents, females and older age. However performing mild to moderate physical activity [AOR = 0.608, 95% CI: 0.37, 0.99] and consumption of fruit and vegetable [AOR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.34, 0.77] were found to be protective against overweight/obesity.

CONCLUSION

Though, it was a problem of developed countries adulthood overweight /obesity is emerged as a public health problem among adults in Ethiopia particularly in the study area, northwest region. Hence, preventive interventions focusing on urban residents, females through encouraging Physical activity, fruit and vegetable consumption is essential to prevent emergence of adulthood overweight/obesity.

Nutritional status, weight perception and weight control practices among office employees in Sokoto, Nigeria

INTRODUCTION

Overweight and obesity have become the fifth leading risk for global deaths. Office employees have been identified as a high risk group due to the sedentary nature of their work, and accurate weight perception is believed to be critical to acceptance of weight control interventions. This study was conducted to assess the nutritional status, weight perception and weight control practices of office employees in Sokoto, Nigeria.

METHODS

A cross sectional study was conducted among 285 randomly selected office employees in private establishments in Sokoto, Nigeria, in February and March 2013. Anthropometry was done for the participants in addition to questionnaire administration.

RESULTS

The mean age of the participants was 33.08 ± 7.23 years, they were predominantly males (56.5%) and married (57.5%). None was underweight, 111 (38.9%) had normal weight, 105 (36.8%) were overweight and 69 (24.2%) were obese. Among the participants with normal weight, overweight and obesity, 71.2%, 35.2% and 58.0% respectively accurately perceived their weight; while 28.8%, 50.5% and 30.4% respectively underestimated their weight. There was poor agreement between actual and perceived weight (k statistics = 0.341, p < 0.001). Only 67 (23.5%) of the 285 participants were engaged in weight control practices.

CONCLUSION

This study showed high prevalence of overweight and obesity, weight misperceptions, and poor uptake of weight control practices among office employees in Sokoto, Nigeria. These findings underscore the need for a holistic approach to obesity control interventions that encompasses both body image perception and nutritional assessment.

Body mass index-measured adiposity and population attributability of associated factors: a population-based study from Buea, Cameroon

Background

Obesity is currently a global health challenge driven by a mix of behavioural, environmental and genetic factors. Up to date population-based disease burden estimates are needed to guide successful prevention and control efforts in African countries. We investigated the prevalence and population attributable fractions of overweight and obesity in Buea, the Southwest region of Cameroon.

Methods

Data are from a community-based cross-sectional study involving randomly selected adults conducted in 2016. Body mass index (BMI) was categorized according to the WHO classification. Multivariable logistic regressions were used to investigate factors independently associated with obesity. Corresponding population attributable fractions were estimated.

Results

Among the 1,139 participants, age-standardized prevalence (95% CI) of overweight and obesity were; 36.5 (33.7–39.3) and 11.1 (9.3–12.9) percent respectively. Mean BMI was 25.3 ± 4.3 kg/m²; women were heavier than men (25.8 vs. 24.4 kg/m²; p <0.0001). Factors associated with obesity were; female gender [odds ratio 3.20 (95% CI: 1.93–5.59)], age > 31 years [3.21 (1.86–5.28)] and being married [2.10 (1.60–3.51)]. At the population level; older age, being married, low level of education, high monthly income and physical inactivity accounted respectively for 11.9%, 21.8%, 11.6%, 6.4% and 8.7% of overweight and obesity among the women, while older age and being married explained 9.2% and 28.3% of overweight and obesity in men.

Conclusion

The prevalence of overweight and obesity in this semi-urban Cameroonian population is high, affecting over a third of individuals. Community-based interventions to control weight would need to take into account gender specificities and socio-economic status.

Overweight and obesity epidemic in Ghana-a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

In many low and middle income countries (LMICs), the distribution of adulthood nutritional imbalance is shifting from a predominance of undernutrition to overnutrition. This complex problem poses a huge challenge to governments, non-state actors, and individuals desirous of addressing the problem of malnutrition in LMICs. The objective of this study was to systematically review the literature towards providing an estimate of the prevalence of overweight and obesity among adult Ghanaians.

Methods

This study followed the recommendations outlined in the PRISMA statement. Searches were performed in PubMed, Science Direct, google scholar, Africa Journals Online (AJOL) and the WHO African Index Medicus database. This retrieved studies (published up to 31st March 2016) that reported overweight and obesity prevalence among Ghanaians. All online searches were supplemented by reference screening of retrieved papers to identify additional studies.

Results

Forty-three (43) studies involving a total population of 48,966 sampled across all the ten (10) regions of Ghana were selected for the review. Our analysis indicates that nearly 43% of Ghanaian adults are either overweight or obese. The national prevalence of overweight and obesity were estimated as 25.4% (95% CI 22.2–28.7%) and 17.1% (95% CI = 14.7–19.5%), respectively. Higher prevalence of overweight (27.2% vs 16.7%) and obesity (20.6% vs 8.0%) were estimated for urban than rural dwellers. Prevalence of overweight (27.8% vs 21.8%) and obesity (21.9% vs 6.0%) were also significantly higher in women than men. About 45.6% of adult diabetes patients in Ghana are either overweight or obese. At the regional level, about 43.4%, 36.9%, 32.4% and 55.2% of residents in Ashanti, Central, Northern and Greater Accra region, respectively are overweight or obese. These patterns generally mimic the levels of urbanization. Per studies’ publication years, consistent increases in overweight and obesity prevalence were observed in Ghana in the period 1998–2016.

Conclusions

There is a high and rising prevalence of overweight and obesity among Ghanaian adults. The possible implications on current and future population health, burden of chronic diseases, health care spending and broader economy could be enormous for a country still battling many infectious and parasitic diseases. Public health preventive measures that are appropriate for the Ghanaian context, culturally sensitive, cost-effective and sustainable are urgently needed to tackle this epidemic.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12889-016-3901-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Prevalence of overweight and obesity and some associated factors among adult residents of northeast China: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to estimate the prevalence of overweight and obesity and determine potential influencing factors among adults in northeast China.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Jilin Province, northeast China, in 2012. A total of 9873 men and 10 966 women aged 18-79 years from the general population were included using a multistage stratified random cluster sampling design. Data were obtained from face-to-face interview and physical examination. After being weighted according to a complex sampling scheme, the sample was used to estimate the prevalence of overweight (body mass index (BMI) 24-27.9 kg/m(2)) and obesity (BMI >28 kg/m(2)) in Jilin Province, and analyse influencing factors through corresponding statistical methods based on complex sampling design behaviours.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of overweight was 32.3% (male 34.3%; female 30.2%), and the prevalence of obesity was 14.6% (male 16.3%; female 12.8%) in Jilin Province. The prevalence of both overweight and obesity were higher in men than women (p<0.001). Influencing factors included sex, age, marriage status, occupation, smoking, drinking, diet and hours of sleep (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study estimated that the prevalence of overweight and obesity among adult residents of Jilin Province, northeast China, were high. The results of this study will be submitted to the Health Department of Jilin Province and other relevant departments as a reference, which should inform policy makers in developing education and publicity to prevent and control the occurrence of overweight and obesity.