Prevalence and associated factors of underweight, overweight, and obesity Among Bangladeshi adults: An analysis of demographic and health survey 2017-18

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of underweight, overweight, and obesity among Bangladeshi adults (≥18 years) using the nationally representative Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey 2017-18 data. An Asian-specific body mass index cut-off was used to define underweight, overweight, and obesity. Multivariable multilevel logistic regression was conducted to investigate associated factors and was reported with adjusted odds ratio [AOR] with 95% confidence interval (CI). The overall prevalence of underweight, overweight, and obesity was 17.1% (95% CI: 16.2%, 18.0%), 29.4% (95% CI: 28.4%, 30.4%), and 10.8% (95% CI: 10.1%, 11.5%), respectively. Compared to 18-29-year old people, the odds of underweight and overweight/obesity was lower among people with 30–49 years of age, respectively. Males had also lower odds of overweight/obesity than females (AOR: 0.47; 95% CI: 0.42,0.51). The odds of underweight declined with increasing education level and wealth quintile. However, the odds of overweight/obesity increased with increasing education level and wealth quintile. Work status or place of residence did not have any significant association. Multisectoral interventions should be launched by targeting the at-risk population for the underweight and overweight/obesity prevention programs irrespective of work status or place of residence.