Association between lifestyle trends and obesity among adults in Imo state

Background: Obesity is a rising global public health concern that has complex causes. The aim of study was to ascertain the association between lifestyle trend and obesity among adults in Imo State and to ascertain the awareness of obesity and its lifestyle modification among the participants.

Methods: This study used a cross-sectional, community-based methodology and focused on some communities in each of the three geopolitical zones of Imo State, South East, Nigeria. Using multistage proportionate stratified random cluster sampling technique, study areas were chosen. Participants' information were obtained using a standardised, validated questionnaire that was designed to have both open-ended and closed-ended questions. After the questionnaire have been administered, anthropometric measures were taken. Multiple linear regression was used to determine associations.

Results: Awareness of obesity was low, with only 21.6% of obese participants recognising their condition. Multiple linear regression to test for association between regression lifestyle trends and obesity was insignificant (R²=0.793, F=2.09, P=0.189).

 Conclusions: This study highlights a low awareness of obesity status among obese participants pointing to a critical gap in health literacy in the area. Lifestyle trends did not independently predict obesity, suggesting the complexity of obesity determinants in this population.