Socioeconomic and behavioural determinants of overweight/obesity among adults in Botswana: a cross-sectional study

Objective To undertake a comprehensive assessment of socioeconomic and behavioural determinants of overweight/obesity among adult population in Botswana. Design The study adopted a cross-sectional design by selecting adult respondents in 3 cities and towns, 15 urban villages and 15 rural areas across Botswana using a multistage probability sampling technique. Setting The study was conducted in selected rural and urban areas of Botswana. Participants The study sample consisted of 1178 adult males and females aged 15 years and above. Primary outcome measures Objectively measured overweight/obesity. Results Prevalence of overweight/obesity in the study population was estimated at 41%. The adjusted OR (AOR) of overweight/obesity were highest among women (AOR=2.74, 95% CI 1.92 to 3.90), in ages 55-64 years (AOR=5.53, 95% CI 2.62 to 11.6), among individuals with secondary (AOR=1.70, 95% CI 1.11 to 2.61) and tertiary education (AOR=1.99, 95% CI 1.16 to 3.38), smokers (AOR=2.16, 95% CI 1.22 to 3.83) and people with poor physically activity (AOR=1.46, 95% CI 1.03 to 3.24). These were statistically significant at 5% level. Conclusion Women, older adults, people with high education level, smokers and people who reported poor physical activity were found to have higher odds of being overweight/obesity. These findings suggest the need for broad based strategies encouraging physical activity among different socioeconomic groups.