Patterns and determinants of overweight and obesity among adults in Botswana

Mpho Keetile, University of Botswana
Kannan Navaneetham, University of Botswana
Gobopamang Letamo, University of Botswana

Recent epidemiological evidence indicates marked increase in the prevalence of overweight and obesity. This study examines patterns and determinants of overweight and obesity in Botswana. In 2007, the Ministry of Health and World Health Organization conducted a cross-sectional survey of chronic non communicable diseases and risk factors using the STEPS approach. This allowed for the collection of demographic data (STEP 1), physical measurement of height, weight, waist, hips and blood pressure (STEP 2) and finally biochemical measurements, which included collection of blood samples (STEP 3). The survey yielded a nationally representative sample of 4003 respondents who are used for this analysis. From a total sample of 4003, national overweight/obesity prevalence was estimated at 18.2% (6% for males and 23.9% for females). Logistic regression analysis has shown significant association between gender and overweight/obesity prevalence, with females (OR 3.7) more likely to be obese than men. Overweight/obesity increases significantly with age, socio-economic status (high education and employment status) for both men and women. Furthermore, overweight/obesity is associated with behavioural risk factors such as hazardous drinking (OR 1.29) and vegetable consumption (OR 1.41) and not with physical inactivity and daily smoking. It is evident that overweight/obesity is becoming a major concern in Botswana hence there is need for efforts to reduce overweight/obesity in the population through a balanced diet and increased physical activity.