Factors associated with overweight and obesity among Bangladeshi university students: a case–control study

Abstract

Objectives: Overweight and obesity has an adverse effect on public health, and emerging adulthood (18–25 years) is recognized as a potential period for the onset of obesity, thus, this study aimed to explore risk factors associated with overweight and obesity in Bangladeshi university students. Participants: Bangladeshi university students (n = 280). Methods: A case–control study of 140 students with overweight and obesity and 140 students with normal weight. Results: Multiple logistic regression revealed having at least one overweight or obese parent (AOR = 4.2; 95% CI: 2.2–8.4) and participating in no physical activity (AOR = 3.2; 95% CI: 1.0–9.9) were potential risk factors. Reported consumption ≥4 meals in a day, junk food/fast food, and soft drinks for ≥3 days a week were potential determinants of overweight and obesity in this population. Conclusion: Increased awareness on the importance of regular physical activity and a healthy diet may reduce the risk of overweight and obesity among Bangladeshi university students.

Keywords:

• Bangladesh
• overweight and obesity
• risk factors
• university students

Acknowledgments

We thank our study subjects who obligingly answered all questions.

Conflict of interest disclosure

The authors have no conflicts of interest to report. The authors confirm that the research presented in this article met the ethical guidelines, including adherence to the legal requirements, of Bangladesh and received approval from the Research Ethical Committee (REC) of Department of Food Microbiology, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Bangladesh.

Funding

No funding was used to support this research and/or the preparation of the manuscript.