Prevalence and Awareness of Risk Factors for Central Obesity among Adults in Kamakonde, Kitwe, Zambia: A Cross-sectional Study
Domaine:
healthcareType de record:
paper
Créateur:
ChiDebFloEll
Éditeur:
Hôte:
Background: Central obesity is an emerging cardiovascular risk factor in sub-Saharan Africa, yet peri-urban Zambian data remain limited. This study determined central obesity prevalence, assessed awareness of behavioral risk factors, and examined socioeconomic perceptions among adults in Kamakonde, Kitwe, Zambia.
Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from May to July 2025 among 363 randomly selected adults aged ≥18 years. Waist circumference was measured using WHO protocols (central obesity: ≥94 cm men, ≥80 cm women). A structured questionnaire assessed demographics, knowledge, dietary habits, physical activity, and socioeconomic barriers. A knowledge score was computed from awareness responses. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression (p<0.05).
Results: Central obesity prevalence was 36.9% (134/363), with females disproportionately affected (41.8% vs. 30.3% males). While 77.9% reported being aware of obesity-related risks, behavioral adherence was low: 57.1% consumed processed foods weekly/daily, and only 33.6% exercised regularly. Female gender (AOR=2.34, 95% CI: 1.45-3.78), age 35-54 years (AOR=3.12, 95% CI: 1.89-5.15), frequent processed food intake (AOR=2.56, 95% CI: 1.58-4.14), and physical inactivity (AOR=1.89, 95% CI: 1.18-3.02) were independently associated with central obesity. Tertiary education was protective (AOR=0.42, 95% CI: 0.23-0.77). Socioeconomic barriers were pervasive: 76.6% cited income/food costs as obstacles, and 41.9% reported limited access to nutritious foods.
Conclusion: Central obesity affects over one-third of adults in this peri-urban community, with marked gender and age disparities. A knowledge-behavior gap persists, associated with perceived-economic and environmental barriers. Multilevel interventions are advised.
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