Prevalence and trends of obesity among adult Sudanese individuals: Population based study

The prevalence of obesity has increased across the globe in particular in Africa. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of obesity in Sudan.

Descriptive, cross sectional study recruited 7239 individuals. Demographic and clinical data were collected by an interview using a pretested standardised questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements including body weight, height and waist circumference have been taken using standardized techniques and calibrated equipment. Body mass index (BMI) has been calculated.

Total of 7239 persons completed the questionnaires; the results showed that prevalence of obesity was found to be 21.2%, with a higher rate of obesity in females than males (26.3% versus 13.8%). The prevalence of central obesity was also higher in women (36.7%) than men (17.6%).The prevalence of overweight was 34.9%. The overall prevalence of overweight/obesity was 56.1%. Obesity determined by BMI was associated with hypertension and diabetes. While central obesity was associated with an increase in age, female, diabetes and hypertension.

The prevalence of obesity was 21.2%. Obesity and central obesity have a higher prevalence among Sudanese women. Obesity and central obesity were associated with diabetes and hypertension.