Prevalence of obesity, overweight and associated factors in female students of The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan

Obesity is an unwanted result of varying behaviors and lifestyle. It is moreover the alterable factor for the growth of numerous enervate diseases. The aim of this study was to find out the prevalence rate of obesity, overweight and associated factors in female students of The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan.  A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 200 subjects (females) with respective age 18-24 years study in The Islamia University of Bahawalpur (Located in Southern Punjab, Pakistan). All subjects divided into two age groups. Group-I (18-21), Group-II (≥22). Subjects were screened through a questionnaire, which consists of questions about intake of breakfast, fruits, vegetables, red meat, fast food, meal regularity and frequency. The results of the present study reveal that the prevalence rates of obesity and overweight were 7.5% and 9% respectively. The results reveal that there is the significant difference between taking in breakfast, red meat, fast food and meal frequency. But taking in fruits and vegetables does not show the significant difference.  Meal irregularities and intake of unhealthy food were found as the major factors lead to obesity. Little sustained modifications’ in dietary habits and lifestyle can help to combat obesity. Keywords: Body Mass Index; Obesity; Prevalence http://dx.doi.org/10.19045/bspab.2019.80115