High prevalence of overweight and obesity among young adults, Cameroon

Abstract

Non-communicable diseases are global public health issues, especially in developing countries, but such data are scarce in Cameroon. This study aimed at determining the prevalence and determinants of obesity/overweight, diabetes, and hypertension, and analyzing their association with vitamin D levels in Cameroon. This cross-sectional study took place from January to December 2022 in the town of Douala, Cameroon. Data of interest were collected from each participant using a questionnaire. Participants were categorized as young adults (18-35 years), middle-aged adults (36-55 years old), and older adults (>55 years old). A total of 357 participants aged on average 39.8 ± 13.6 years, with young adults accounting for 47.6%. Overweight (38.1%) and obesity (23.8%) were the main comorbidities. The risk of being overweight was reduced in those with no vitamin D deficiency (aOR = 0.35, P = .03). The risk of obesity was increased in middle-aged adults (aOR = 4.47, P = .0003) and older adults (aOR = 3.20, P = .03) compared to their younger counterparts. However, no significant association was found between body mass index status and vitamin D levels and or vitamin D deficiency proportions (P > .05). The relationship between vitamin D and body mass index status was modulated by age, educational level, and occupation. Overweight and obesity are indeed significant health concerns. Thus, promoting physical activities and food strategies could be an interesting way to slow down the burden of these interrelated comorbidities and their impact on vitamin D.