Physical Activity levels associated with Overweight and Obesity amongst female traders in Municipal Markets in Eldoret, Kenya.

Abstract

Background: Overweight (BMI 25-29) and obesity (BMI ≥30) is currently a global epidemic. Increase in non- communicable diseases is a major cause of death globally that is linked to nutritional imbalances like overweight and obesity. This study was to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity among women traders aged 20-50 years at Eldoret municipal markets, Kenya and identify the levels of physical activity amongst these women. Methods: This study was a cross sectional descriptive survey. Data was collected using researcher administered questionnaires for demographic information, their physical activity patterns and anthropometric measurements (height, weight, and waist and hip circumference) for Body mass index calculations was collected from 238 registered female traders aged 20-50 years from the Eldoret Municipal markets. Proportionate sampling was used to identify the number of subjects per market because all the four markets differ in population. Body Mass Index (BMI) was used to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity. Data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software (Version 26). Descriptive and inferential statistics was used to describe the data. Chi-square tests was performed at 0.05 level of significance to establish the association between physical activity and nutritional status. Results: The prevalence of overweight 24 % and obesity 37% among the women traders was 61% with a statistically significant (p< 0.05) relationship between overweight and obesity and Conclusion: This study concludes that the prevalence of obesity and overweight among women traders is a cause to worry being it is a predisposing factor to non-communicable diseases, which is currently a major cause of deaths. Recommendation: The ministry of health in collaboration with the trade department and related policy makers should introduce obesity and overweight and the risks that come with it through sensitization programs for the market women and outreach programs and implement essential strategies that can play an important role in the sensitization of anti-obesity habits and practices.