Association of Risk Factors of Overweight and Obesity among the Adult Population: A Case–Control Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52206/jsmc.2026.16.1.1377Abstract
Background: Overweight and obesity are emerging as major global public health challenges and are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The prevalence of overweight and obesity has increased rapidly over the past four decades, affecting both developed and developing countries, including Pakistan. These conditions are strongly associated with non-communicable diseases such as diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disorders, and metabolic syndromes.
Objective: To assess the association between selected sociodemographic, behavioral, dietary, and lifestyle risk factors and overweight/obesity among the adult population.
Methodology: A community-based case–control study was conducted from January to April 2024 in Swat and Peshawar districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. A total of 363 adults aged ≥18 years were included using a 2:1 control-to-case ratio. Individuals with BMI ≥25 kg/m² were classified as cases, while those with BMI <25 kg/m² served as controls. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire covering demographic characteristics, lifestyle behaviors, dietary practices, and family history. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.0, and associations were assessed using odds ratios and chi-square tests.
Results: Overweight and obesity showed significant associations with advancing age, literacy status, higher monthly income, positive family history of obesity, tobacco smoking, sedentary lifestyle, lack of physical activity, high screen time, consumption of soft and energy drinks, and preference for high-caloric diets. Protective associations were observed with regular physical activity and higher intake of fruits and vegetables.
Conclusion: Overweight and obesity among adults were strongly associated with modifiable lifestyle and dietary factors, as well as selected sociodemographic determinants. These findings highlight the need for comprehensive public health interventions focusing on lifestyle modification, dietary improvement, and behavioral change to reduce the burden of obesity in the adult population.
Keywords: Adult Population, Diet, Lifestyle, Obesity, Overweight, Physical Activity, Risk Factors.
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