Prevalence of obesity and associated sociodemographic and lifestyle factors in Morocco

Abstract

Objective In Morocco, the association between obesity/overweight and socio-demographic and lifestyle factors is poorly understood. The present study aimed to investigate this association in a representative sample of the Moroccan population aged 18 years and above.Design This is a cross-sectional study using a questionnaire including demographic, socio-economic and physical activity items. Height and weight were measured and BMI was computed. The association between obesity (BMI 300 kg/m2) or overweight (25.0 ≤BMI < 299 kg/m2) and the other variables was analysed using multiple binomial logistic regression, separately in men and women.Setting The whole Moroccan territory.Subjects A total of 2891 subjects took part in the survey (1430 men and 1461 women).Results The prevalence of obesity was 209 % in women and 60 % in men (P < 00001). The prevalence of overweight was 329 % in women v. 268 % in men (P < 00001). In women, the risk of obesity and overweight increased with age, with the highest risk being in individuals aged 45-54 years (OR = 302, 95 % CI 206, 444) compared to individuals <35 years old. Married women were more prone to obesity and overweight (OR = 242, 95 % CI 150, 391) than single women. In men, the risk of obesity and overweight increased with average family income (OR = 262, 95 % CI 140, 487 for family income ≥5000 MAD/month compared to <2000 MAD/month) and in married persons (OR = 375, 95 % CI 178, 781) compared to single individuals.Conclusions These results contribute to target groups in whom prevention programmes could be implemented. © 2010 The Authors.