Prevalence and predictors of overweight and obesity among young adults in Lephalale between 2021 and 2023, Limpopo province, South Africa.

BACKGROUND

Overweight and obesity are rising health concerns in South Africa, increasingly affecting young adults in rural communities, and are influenced by distinct demographic, socio-economic and behavioural factors.

AIM: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of body mass index (BMI)-defined overweight and obesity among young adults aged 18-29 years.

SETTING

The study was conducted in Lephalale, a predominantly rural-industrial area located within the Waterberg District Municipality of Limpopo province, South Africa.

METHODS

A community-based cross-sectional survey of 1063 adults aged 18-29 years from 42 rural settlements collected data on socio-demographic characteristics, employment, income, government grant receipt, physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaire - IPAQ), dietary practices (processed and fast food intake, fruit and vegetable consumption), smoking and alcohol use. BMI was calculated as weight divided by height squared (kg/m2) and classified using WHO criteria. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses identified the predictors of combined overweight and obesity compared with normal or underweight participants.

RESULTS

The combined prevalence of overweight and obesity was 35%. Significant independent predictors included age 25-29 years (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 2.05; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.40-3.00), government grant receipt (AOR: 1.55; 95% CI: 1.05-2.28), daily processed food intake (AOR: 1.85; 95% CI: 1.25-2.73), weekly fast food intake (AOR: 1.70; 95% CI: 1.18-2.45), smoking (AOR: 1.25; 95% CI: 1.00-1.72) and daily alcohol use (AOR: 2.10; 95% CI: 1.35-3.15). Overweight and obesity were prevalent among rural young adults and were associated with socio-economic vulnerability and modifiable lifestyle behaviours.

CONCLUSION

Overweight and obesity were highly prevalent among young adults living in a rural-industrial setting in Limpopo province.

CONTRIBUTION: The findings highlight priority behavioural and social determinants that can inform targeted public health interventions and obesity-prevention policies in transitioning rural communities.