Levels, Trends, and Factors Associated With Obesity Among Women in Ghana, 2003–2022

Abstract

Background: Obesity in adults is defined as an individual with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or higher. The disease is one of the leading risk factors for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), which accounts for 2.8 million deaths per year globally. Despite efforts to reduce obesity, the levels are still high, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. In Ghana, obesity has been on the rise over the past few decades, especially among women. The health and economic burden of obesity cannot be underestimated, and efforts must be made to identify factors that are associated with the condition. This study sought to determine the levels, trends, and factors associated with obesity among women in Ghana. Methods: Data for the study came from four waves of the Ghana Demographic and Health Survey (GDHS) from 2003 to 2022. The analysis involved women aged 15–49 years. Their obesity status was categorized into a binary outcome of “1” for those who are obese (BMI = 30+ kg/m2) and “0” otherwise (BMI <30 kg/m2). Binary logistic regression was performed on the data to ascertain the factors that are associated with obesity among women for each of the years separately. Results: In all, 15,467 women, aged 15–49 years, were included in the analysis. Out of this, 13.7% were obese (BMI = 30+ kg/m2). In terms of trends in obesity prevalence across the various years, the results showed an increase in obesity from 9.9% in 2003 to 23.0% in 2022. From the regression results, the common factors associated with obesity for each of the years included being an urban resident, having a tertiary education, and being in the richest household. Conclusions: The results showed that being an urban dweller, having a tertiary level of education, being in the richest household, and being a resident of regions in the north of Ghana are associated with obesity. Therefore, policies aimed at reducing obesity in Ghana should intensify public health education, particularly among urban dwellers and wealthy individuals, to engage in healthy lifestyles. The less educated members of the population should also be educated to avoid behaviors that will put them at risk of obesity. Local authorities should create an environment, particularly in high-class neighborhoods, that offers easy access to healthy foods and places for physical activities.