PREVALENCE OF OVERWEIGHT AND OBESITY AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG RURAL POPULATION ATTENDING PRIMARY HEALTH CENTRES IN NYARUGURU DISTRICT, RWANDA
Authors
Mr Anaclet Mugali
Mr Jean Claude Niyonsaba
Dr Mojeed Akorede Gbadamosi
Mr Theophile Mihire
Dr Charles Nsanzabera
Publication Details
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Abstract
Background:
Overweight and obesity are increasing global public health challenges, with more than 650 million adults affected worldwide. Their prevalence is rising rapidly in both developed and developing countries, contributing to significant health, social, and economic burdens. In Rwanda, limited research has examined the prevalence and determinants of overweight and obesity among rural populations. Understanding the magnitude and associated factors is essential for developing effective prevention strategies. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity and identify associated factors among adults attending primary health centers in Nyaruguru District, Rwanda.
Methods:
A cross-sectional health facility-based study was conducted among adults aged 18 years and above attending selected health centers in Nyaruguru District. A sample of 390 participants was determined using Yamane’s formula and selected through stratified sampling. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 28. Chi-square tests and logistic regression were used to identify factors associated with being overweight and obesity, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.
Results:
Based on BMI classification, 73.6% of participants had normal weight, 18.7% were overweight, and 7.7% were obese. Similar patterns were observed using other anthropometric indices. Multivariate analysis showed that age above 55 years (AOR=6.56), being married (AOR=3.23), family history of diabetes (AOR=2.26), participants consuming 3–7 alcoholic drinks per week (AOR=3.36, 95% CI: 1.68–6.72, p=0.001).And frequent consumption of sweet drinks (AOR=3.57) were significantly associated with overweight and obesity. Lack of fruit consumption (AOR=2.13, p=0.003) and lack of vegetable consumption (AOR=2.41, p=0.001) were also significant risk factors.
Conclusion:
Overweight and obesity are notable health concerns among rural adults in Nyaruguru District. Lifestyle factors, dietary habits, and age significantly influence their occurrence. Strengthening community health education, promoting healthy diets, and encouraging physical activity are recommended to reduce overweight and obesity in rural populations.
Keywords
References
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