The prevalence of obesity as indicated by body mass index among apparently healthy adults living in Aba, Abia State, Nigeria

Abstract

The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of obesity using BMI and to assess the relative associations with some cardiovascular risk factors (CVD). Subjects for this study were apparently healthy volunteers who willingly granted their informed consent. They reported at the various study zones of the town after an over-night fast where their weights (in Kg), heights (in Metres), and blood pressures (mm Hg) were measured and recorded. Blood samples were also collected via venipuncture for serum lipid profile studies. The data obtained were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The student t-test was used and p ≤ 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. The results showed that the prevalence of obesity as determined by BMI ≥ 30kg/m² was 16.56%. Obesity was more prevalent among the subjects older than 40 years and among females than males (p<0.05). BMI appeared to be significantly associated with CVD risks factors. Thus, healthier eating and increase physical activities are strongly encouraged to reduce the increasing prevalence of obesity and the associated CVD risk burden.

Key words: Prevalence, BMI, Obesity, Aba, Nigerians