Risk Factors of Obesity among 15-64 Yrs Age Group: Picture in a Village of West Bengal

Abstract

Obesity, a result of unhealthy consumption, coupled lack of physical activity, is itself a serious health risk. The key to the control of epidemics of obesity is primary prevention. The basis of prevention is therefore identification of the major risk factors and their prevention and control. A Descriptive epidemiological study using cross sectional design was carried out among seven thirty subjects of 15-64 yr age group in a village with primary objective of finding out the prevalence of various risk factors and to see the association in between. Interview was taken using a schedule modified in line with IDSP questionnaire [11] taking into account the local needs and resources. Data was collected on socio demographic variables, risk factors of obesity by house to house visit after obtaining informed verbal consent. Study population consisted of 57% male, 70% Hindu, 20% illiterate and 35 % unemployed respondents. 22.9% gave smoked and smokeless tobacco use history, 75.2% current tobacco users, 21% current drinkers, 38.5% had sedentary lifestyle, nearly 50% added extra salt most of the times, 80% use unsaturated oil. Sixty subjects had BMI of more than 30.0. Significant association was found with age group, per capita income, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, physical activity, salt intake with food and intake of oils/fat.(P<.01). Finally motivation for improvement in life style is the million dollar suggestion.