Risk factors for overweight and obesity among women of reproductive age in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Abstract Background Overweight and obesity have increased considerably in low- middle-income countries over the past few decades, particularly among women of reproductive age. This study assessed role physical activity, nutrient intake risk factors for overweight Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional survey 1004 aged 15–49 years Salaam Urban Cohort Study (DUCS) from September 2018 to January 2019. Dietary was using food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Physical activity Global Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) metabolic equivalent tasks (MET). Modified poison regression models were used evaluate associations between with overweight/obesity women, controlling energy other factors. Results The mean (±SD) age 30.2 (±8.1) years. Prevalence high (50.4%), underweight 8.6%. higher older (35–49 vs 15–24 years: PR 1.59; 95% CI: 1.30–1.95); wealth status (PR 1.24; 1.07–1.43); informally employed married women. Attaining moderate (≥600 MET) inversely associated 0.79; 0.63–0.99). sugar 1.27; 1.03–1.58) risk, fish poultry consumption 0.78; 0.61–0.99) lower overweight/obesity. Conclusion Lifestyle (low intake), age, status, informal employment marital overweight/obesity, while protein risk. findings underscore need design feasible high-impact interventions address healthy diets