Self-perception of body size among adults in Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Obesity is a lifestyle disease with enormous public health challenges. Accurate self-perception of body size is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle and a healthy body size. Aim: The aim of this study is to describe self-perception of body size among adults in Delta State, Nigeria, and determine the level of misperception. Settings and Design: This was a cross-sectional exploratory survey of apparently healthy adults living in Delta State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Data on demography, self-perception of body size, and means of assessing body size were reported and documented. Height, weight, and waist circumference (WC) were measured and body mass index (BMI) calculated. Actual body size was compared with self-perceived body size. Results: About 85% of the respondents reported normal/healthy self-perceived weight while