Weight status among pregnant women in Aseer region, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Obesity is one of the most common chronic diseases in Saudi community that affecting all ages and both genders. Objectives: The aim of this study is to estimate the weight status of pregnant women and its associated factors in Aseer Region, Saudi Arabia. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted on pregnant women who were follow at antenatal clinics in primary health care center (PHCC) in Aseer Region during the period (3 rd to 7 th of November 2013). Data collection sheet was designed by the investigators to achieve the aim of this study. Working nurses in the antenatal care clinics were given written instructions regarding the objective, the importance of this study and how to measure the weight and how to fill data collection sheet properly. Data were coded and then entered into a personal computer provided with SPSS. Results: A total of 800 pregnant women attended PHCCs during the period of study. The mean age was 29.4 ΁ 6.3 years and about 50% of them were between 26 and 35 years old. Saudi represents the vast majority, and 85% of them were housewives. Mean of gravidity and parity were 4 and 2.5 respectively. Mean gestational age was 20 weeks, and rate of obesity and overweight were 32% and 38%, respectively. Conclusion: This study revealed that most of the pregnant women attending PHCC in Aseer Region were overweight or obese. Obesity rate increased significantly with advanced age and parity.