Abstract:
Introduction: Childhood and adolescent overweight and obesity have increased dramatically globally in the recent years. Though initially thought to be a problem of developed countries, studies have shown that this is not the case as developing countries have also been affected. Childhood overweight and obesity tend to persist through adulthood and may lead to early onset of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and a number of psychological consequences. It must be noted that there is paucity of data on the magnitude of overweight and obesity among adolescents in Tanzania. This study intended to establish the burden and factors associated with overweight and obesity among secondary school students in Babati, Manyara.
Objective: The main objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of overweight and obesity as well as associated factors among secondary school students in Babati, Manyara.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was carried out involving adolescents attending secondary schools in Babati, Manyara. The minimum required sample size was 602 study units. A multi-stage cluster sampling procedure was used. Anthropometric measurements were taken using standard procedures. Information about physical activity, dietary pattern and socio-demographic factors was obtained using a self- administered questionnaire. Ethical clearance was sought from the Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) Directorate of Research and Publication. In order to participate in this study, students’ assent and parents/guardians consent were obtained. Descriptive statistics was used to summarize data; chi-square test was used to ascertain association between categorical variables. Regression models were run and presented as adjusted odds ratio with their 95% confidence intervals. A p-value of < 5% was used as a cut off point for statistical significance.
Results: A total of 619 students aged between 12-19 years (mean age 16.7±1.6 years), sampled from Babati secondary schools were included in this study. These were either from public (62.2%) or private (37.8%) schools. The overall prevalence of overweight and obesity was 13%. Female students had a five-fold increased risk of overweight or obesity than their male counterparts (p< 0.001, Adjusted OR=5.5, 95% CI=2.8- 10.5). The level of physical activity was found to be associated with overweight/obesity, (p=0.01, AOR=0.6, 95% CI= 0.4- 0.9). Those who consumed unhealthy diet doubled their risk of being overweight/obese, (p=0.04, AOR= 2.3, 95% CI= 1.0- 5.4)
Conclusion: The prevalence of overweight and obesity was found to be high with a higher frequency in female students than their male counterparts. Mild physical activity and unhealthy diet were found to be associated with overweight/obesity. Comprehensive evidence based interventions need to be employed to reduce the magnitude of this problem among adolescents.
