Prevalence of overweight and obesity among women of childbearing age in Male' : a quantitative study / Aishath Najiha

Abstract

Scope
Overweight and obesity being one of the most preventable causes of death among worldwide and it being, evidently higher in women than men. it has become important to study this area. The human role of women which is associated with many risks, especially with overweight and obesity is very vital to be studied about.

Purpose
This study will mainly aim at identifying the prevalence of obesity among the childbearing age (15-44 years) women, living in Male'. Furthermore, this study also will address at determining the relationship between various psychological and behavioural factors and overweight and obesity.

Methodology
The methodology adopted for this study was quantitative research design. The population which have been chosen for this study is women of childbearing age (15-44) living in Male'. The sample size chosen for the study is 381 women living in Male'. Using proportionate sampling sample size was dived to the six wards of Male'. Data collection was carried out using a questionnaire. The DASS. mindful eating questionnaire and IPAQ was taken and combine to form a questionnaire which was translated to Dhivehi before starting the study. Enumerators were trained to interview the participants.

Results
The results showed there is prevalence of overweight and obesity among women of childbearing age in Male'. Though the behavioural and psychological factors had correlation with overweight and obesity, there were no significant relationship between them.

Conclusions
Control of overweight and obesity is essential in order to prevent the development of other chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus. hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. Infertility issues and babies born with deformities are consequences of overweight and obesity among women.