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WORLD ANTHROPOLOGICAL UNION

CONGRESS 2024​

Paper

Prevalence and associated risk factors of obesity among the adult rural population of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

presenters

    Mr. Ashok Kumar Yadav

    Nationality: Indian

    Residence: India

    Department of Anthropology, Dr. Harisingh Gour University, Sagar, MP, India

    Presence:Online

Obesity has emerged as a global health concern, with reports indicating a triple burden of nutritional disorders: obesity, undernutrition, and cardiovascular disorders within the same households. Over the past decade and a half, there has been a rapid increase in the proportion of individuals experiencing underweight, overweight, and obesity. However, limited research has focused on the prevalence of obesity and its determinants in rural areas. Therefore, this study aims to assess the prevalence of overweight and obesity and identify associated risk factors among adults in the rural Varanasi district, Uttar Pradesh, India. A cross-sectional study employing a multistage, stratified random sampling design was conducted in the Varanasi district from December 2022 to March 2023. A total of 1000 respondents aged 18 years and above were recruited. Anthropometric measurements, including height, weight, and waist circumference, were obtained, and blood pressure measurements were recorded following standard protocols. The prevalence of obesity was determined using body mass index (BMI) categories. The prevalence of obesity among male and female adults was 50.7% and 49.3%, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed significant associations between obesity and various factors, including age, gender, social class, family type, hypertension, and occupation. Age exhibited a positive correlation with obesity, particularly among individuals in higher age groups. Males showed a higher risk of obesity compared to females. The prevalence of obesity and overweight among adults in Varanasi district, Uttar Pradesh, India, is notably high and significantly associated with sociodemographic and behavioral factors. Urgent and comprehensive strategic initiatives are required to address obesity in high-risk populations in the Varanasi district.

Keywords:

Stature, bodyweight, Waist circumference, Blood pressure, BMI.