Prevalence and determinants of obesity among adolescents in Vhembe district Municipality, Limpopo Province

Abstract

Introduction: Globally obesity amongst adolescents is becoming one of the most challenging public health concerns. Prevalence of obesity among children and adolescent has dramatically increased in recent years in both developed and developing countries. Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence and determinants of obesity among adolescents in Vhembe district. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 377 adolescents aged 13-20years. The following measurements were carried out: anthropometric measurements, dietary assessment, biochemical measurements, blood pressure and physical activity level. A questionnaire was used to collect demographic information and dietary intake. Data were expressed as means and standard deviations. The statistical package for social sciences version 26 was used to analyse data. Binary logistics regression analysis was used to determine odds ratio (OR). A p-value of <0.05 was considered significant. Results: The prevalence of obesity was high in females (20.3%) as compared to males (6%). Determinants of obesity in this study included gender, age, source of income, SBP, cholesterol and nutrients intake. Among male participants BMI was significantly associated with SBP (r=0.281, p=0.00), WC (r=0.661, p=0.00) and TC (r=0.223, P0.06). In female participants BMI was significantly associated with SBP (r=0.242, p=0.00), DBP (r=0.157, p=0.18) and TRIG (r=0.158 p=0.01) and negatively associated with HDL (-0.178, p=0.07). There was a high intake of macronutrients and low intake of micronutrients among adolescents in the current study. Most (males=30.7% vs females=60.8%) of adolescents had low physical activity indexes and living a sedentary lifestyle. Conclusion: The results of the study suggest a double burden and trend of undernutrition and overnutrition.