Distribution and Determinants of Obesity among Adults Attending Health Facilities of a Medical College in Ujjain

Abstract

Introduction: Obesity is a significant risk factor for various serious health conditions, includinghypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancers. With increasing socio-economic statusand life expectancy in India, the prevalence of obesity is on the rise, contributing to the burden oflifestyle-related disorders. This study aims to investigate the distribution and determinants of obesityamong apparently healthy adults attending health facilities in a medical college located in a rural areaadjoining Ujjain city.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted within the field practice area of the Department ofCommunity Medicine at R.D. Gardi Medical College. A sample size of 354 participants was determinedand data was collected through structured interviews covering socio-demographic information,medical history, anthropometric measurements, and determinants of health. Body mass index (BMI)was computed and participants were classified based on established cut-off points for Asian Indians.Results: Out of 310 fully completed questionnaires, 47.4% of participants were overweight or obese.Age was significantly associated with obesity, with prevalence increasing from 34.1% in the 18 to 30age group to 75% in participants over 60 years. Urban residents had a higher prevalence of obesitycompared to rural residents (53.8 vs 44.1%). Higher educational status, overeating between meals, andwatching television while eating was significantly associated with obesity. Physical inactivity was moreprevalent among overweight or obese participants (59.7 vs 26.3%).Conclusion: The study finds the need for tailored interventions to combat obesity, especially amongfemales, older individuals, urban residents, and those with higher education. Addressing lifestylefactors such as overeating and sedentary behavior is essential in the battle against obesity and associatedchronic diseases.