Overweight and Obesity: Perception and associated risk factors among women in southern Morocco

Aim: In this study, we aimed to identify the main risk factors associated with overweight and obesity among women in southern Morocco. Material and Methods: The study was conducted in health centres in the southern region of Morocco. Data were collected using a questionnaire. In addition to socio-demographic information, physical activity was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Information on dietary habits was also collected using the Guideline Score of the French National Nutrition and Health Program (PNNS-GS). Anthropometric data (weight and height) were measured and perception was assessed using the Stunkard body shape assessment scale. Results: A total of 576 were included in this study. Anthropometric data showed that 37.3% of women were normal weight, 33.9% (IC95% [30.03-37.77]) were overweight and 25.2% were obese (IC95% [21.65-28.75]). The study revealed that overweight was related to socio-demographic status, Sahrawi Arab ethnicity (OR= 1.82; IC95% [1.13-3.93], p=0.013) and mixed race (OR= 2.61, IC95% [1.47- 4.61], p=0.001). However, this relationship was not significant for eating habits and physical activity level. As for parity and maternal breastfeeding, there was a significant relationship with weight gain, as well as positive perception of overweight and desire to gain weight (p>0.001). However, the desire to lose weight protects against overweight (OR=0.46; IC95% [0.30-0.70]) Discussion: Reducing the magnitude of this public health problem requires strategies that address all the factors that can lead to weight gain in the population with a particular emphasis on young women.