Pattern and factors associated with Body Mass Index among selected salary earners in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Overweight and obesity is the major risk factor fueling increased prevalence of chronic diseases among Nigerians. Salary earners play a significant role in a nation's economy; obesity prevalence among them could adversely affect the nation economy.

Objective: To assess the prevalence of overweight and obesity and associated factors among salary earners in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria.

Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 400 workers from both government and private establishments in Ado-Ekiti. A self-administered pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect information on socio-demographic characteristics and physical activity of the workers. Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated from measured weight and height and categorised as underweight (BMI<18.5), normal (BMI=18.5-24.99), overweight (BMI=25.00-29.99) and obesity (BMI≥30). The data collected were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) and Chi-square test was used to established association of variables at 5% levels of significance.

Results: The mean age of the respondents was 40.38 ± 0.25years with 58.5% of ages ≤40years; 57% females and 89% married. Two-third (65.5%) of the respondents engaged in vigorous physical activity. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 36.3% and 28.8% respectively. There was significant association between overweight/obesity and age (p=0.003), gender (p=0.000), marital status (p=0.003), occupation type (p=0.000) and job cadre (p=0.000).

Conclusion: High prevalence of overweight and obesity among the workers was revealed. Nutrition education in the workplace is recommended.