PREVALENCE AND DETERMINANTS OF OVERWEIGHT AND OBESITY

ABSTRACT

Obesity is a growing public health problem globally, affecting people of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds. The prevalence of overweight and obesity among undergraduate students is increasing globally, with studies showing the rates range from 20% to 60%. The prevalence is higher in developed countries than in developing countries, and it is more common in female students than in male students especially with the rise of sedentary lifestyles and easy access to high-calorie foods, overweight and obesity are becoming increasingly prevalent among young adults. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and determinants of overweight and obesity among undergraduate students in halls of residence, University of Benin. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used for the purpose of this study and a sample size of 420 was obtained using Taro Yamane’s formula. A well-structured questionnaire, weighing scale and calibrated meter rule was used to collect data. The result recorded a prevalence rate of 59 (14.3%) for overweight and 21 (5.1%), sex of respondents showed that 216(52.3%) were females, while 197 (47.7%) were male. Results showed that 83(20.1%) had fair level of knowlwdge,206(49.9%) had low level, while 124 (30%) had high level of knowledge regarding overweight and obesity and its associated factors. The respondents BMI (kg/m2) mean was 22.9±0.56. In conclusion, this study assessed the prevalence and determinant of overweight and obesity among undergraduate students in halls of residence, University of Benin. The result showed that there was high prevalence of overweight an obesity and low level of knowledge on overweight and obesity and its associated factors.