Weight trajectory during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study in Malaysia

Abstract This study examines the weight trajectory of Malaysian adults and its associated factors during COVID-19 pandemic. Sociodemographic information anthropometric measurements, including body height (cm) weights (kg) before pandemic, were self-reported by respondents. The current showed that 47.8% (using absolute change status) 25.5% relative gained Adults who previously underweight or had a normal BMI experienced significantly higher (under-weight: t= -6.176, p < 0.001 normal: -6.193, 0.001) (underweight: -6.127, -5.982, No significant associations observed between socio-demographic characteristics status respondents, except for ethnicity (? 2 = 12.858, 0.045). stay-at-home orders appeared to drive up prevalence over-weight/obesity, BMI, gain in adults. increase was mainly with among those BMI. Gender, age, marital status, educational level not findings this may be useful formulating management strategies post-pandemic era.