Associated factors of obesity and macronutrient intake of staff in a Nigerian University

Abstract

Background: Obesity is a rapidly escalating public health problem globally.

Objective: This study assessed associated factors of obesity and macronutrient intake of staff in a Nigerian university.

Methods: Random sampling by balloting without replacement was used to select 386 staff (18-60 years) of University of Nigeria, Nsukka.  Anthropometric measurements (weight, height, waist circumference and hip circumference) were obtained from subjects and their body mass index (BMI) and waist-hip ratio (WHR) were calculated. The indices derived were compared with the WHO standards, Structured questionnaire was used to elicit socio-demographic information of subjects and a subsample (20%) were used for nutrient intake study. Data obtained was analysed using Statistical Product and Service Solution version 21. Pearson’s correlation and chi-square were used to determine relationships among variables at p < 0.05.

Results: Prevalence of overweight and obesity based on BMI were 49.7% (51.7% for males and 46.5% for females) and 24.9% (19.9% for males and 32.9% for females). Subjects who were in obese class I (14.2%), class II (2.8%) and class III (1.3%) had abdominal obesity. Macronutrients intake of subjects provided more than 100% of their daily recommended nutrient intake (RNI). Positive association existed between BMI and energy intake (r = 0.563, p = 0.000), age (r = 0.093, p = 0.420), cadre (r = 0.209, p =0.068), educational qualification (r= 0.070, p = 0.545). Monthly income was, however, negatively associated (r = -0.020, p = 0.863) with BMI.

Conclusion: Energy intake was significantly associated with BMI necessitating nutrition education with emphasis on moderate calorie consumption amongthe staff.

Keywords: BMI; energy intake; obesity; university staff