The Prevalence of Abdominal Obesity and Its Correlates among the Adults in Dodoma Region, Tanzania: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Magnitude of central obesity and associated factors among adult patients attending public health facilities in Adama town, Oromia region, Ethiopia, 2022

BACKGROUND

Central obesity is excessive accumulation of fat around the abdomen, which is associated with the risk of coronary heart and cerebrovascular diseases. This study determined the magnitude of central obesity among adult patients using the waist-to-hip ratio, which has a superior capacity to measure the risk of developing non-communicable diseases compared to the body mass index used in previous studies in Ethiopia.

METHODS

Institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among a sample of 480 adults from April 1 to May 30, 2022. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. Data were collected by using interviewer-administered structured questionnaires and anthropometric measurements. The data were entered into EPI INFO version 7 and analyzed by Statistical Software for Social Science Version 25. The associations between independent and dependent variables were checked using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence interval were used to measure the strengths of the association. Statistical significance was declared at a P value of less than 0.05.

RESULTS

The magnitude of central obesity in this study was 40% (51.2% and 27.4% among females and males, respectively (95% CI 36-44%)). Being a female (AOR = 9.5, 95% CI 5.22-17.9), age range 35-44 (AOR = 7.0, 95% CI 2.9-16.7), 45-64 years (AOR = 10.1, 95% CI4.0-15.2), married (AOR = 2.5, 95% CI 1.3-4.7), high monthly income (AOR = 3.3, 95% CI 1.5-7.3), high consumption of milk and milk products (AOR = 0.3, 95% CI 0.1-0.6), family history of obesity (AOR = 1.8, 95% CI 1.1-3.2) were significantly associated with central obesity among the study participants.

CONCLUSION

The magnitude of central obesity was higher in the study area. Sex, age, marital status, monthly income, consumption of milk and milk products, and family history of obesity were independent determinants of central obesity. Therefore, it is important to raise awareness about central obesity through behavior change communication that targets the high-risk population.

Prevalence and Predictors of Combined Body Mass Index and Waist Circumference Among Indian Adults

Objective: To determine the prevalence and predictors of combined BMI-WC disease risk categories among Indian adults.

Methods: The study utilizes data from Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI Wave 1) with an eligible sample of 66, 859 individuals. Bivariate analysis was done to get the proportion of individuals in different BMI-WC risk categories. Multinomial logistic regression was used to identify the predictors of BMI-WC risk categories.

Results: Poor self-rated health, female sex, urban place of residence, higher educational status, increasing MPCE quintile, and cardio-vascular disease increased with increasing BMI-WC disease risk level while increasing age, tobacco consumption, and engagement in physical activities was negatively associated with BMI-WC disease risk.

Conclusion: Elderly persons in India have a considerable higher prevalence of BMI-WC disease risk categories which make them vulnerable to developing several disease. Findings emphasize the need of using combined BMI categories and waist circumference to assess the prevalence of obesity and associated disease risk. Finally, we recommend that intervention programs with an emphasis on urbanites wealthy women and those with a higher BMI-WC risk categories be implemented.

Determination of Multiple Cancer Risk Behaviors Among Adult Population in Turkey: A Cross-sectional Study

Background: Modifiable cancer risk behaviors are general not seen alone but in combination in individuals. Purpose: This study aims to investigate the factors associated with combinations of cancer risk behaviors, including tobacco use, obesity, and low physical activity that cause cancer in adults. Methods: A total of 720 adults were selected using the multi-stage cluster sampling method. Data were collected using the World Health Organization STEP-wise protocols. Results: It was found that 46.9% of the participants showed one, 46.3% two or more types of risk behavior. The percentage of married individuals was higher among those who engaged in one, two, or three risky behaviors than those who did not engage in risky behaviors. Among participants with two risk behaviors, the percentage of those who rated their health as very good was lower than those without risk behaviors; those who had friends or relatives with cancer were high. Those who engaged in three risk behaviors were less educated and had lower incomes than those who did not engage in risk behaviors. Conclusions: Health intervention strategies should be increased in primary health care institutions for individuals who are married, has low level of education and income and has weak perception of health.

What Drives Abdominal Obesity in Peru? A Multilevel Analysis Approach Using a Nationally Representative Survey

Abdominal obesity (AO) is a serious public health threat due to its increasing prevalence and effect on the development of various non-communicable diseases. A multilevel analysis of the 2019 Demographic and Family Health Survey (ENDES in Spanish) using the Latin American Diabetes Association (ALAD in Spanish) cut-off points was carried out to evaluate the individual and contextual factors associated with AO in Peru. A total of 30,585 individuals 18 years and older were included in the analysis. The prevalence of AO among Peruvians in 2019 was 56.5%. Individuals of older age (aOR 4.64; 95% CI: 3.95-5.45), women (aOR 2.74; 95% CI: 2.33-3.23), individuals with a higher wealth index (aOR 2.81; 95% CI: 2.40-3.30) and having only secondary education (aOR 1.45; 95% CI: 1.21-1.75) showed increased odds of presenting AO compared to their peers. At a contextual level, only the Human Development Index (aOR 1.59; 95% CI: 1.17-2.16) was associated with the development of AO. A high Human Development Index is the contextual factor most associated with AO. It is necessary to formulate and implement new public health policies focused on these associated factors in order to reduce the prevalence of OA and prevent the excessive burden of associated noncommunicable diseases.

Prevalence of central obesity and its associated risk factors among adults in Southeast Ethiopia: A community-based cross-sectional study

Background

Obesity and overweight are known public health problems that affect populations across the world. These conditions have been associated with a wide range of chronic diseases including type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and cancers. In Ethiopia, the literature regarding the burden of central (abdominal) obesity is scarce. This study aimed to fill this gap by assessing the prevalence and risk factors associated with central obesity among adults in Ethiopia.

Methods

From May to July 2021, a community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted on a sample of 694 adults aged ≥18 years in administrative towns of Bale zone, Southeast Ethiopia. Multi-stage sampling followed by systematic random sampling was employed to identify study participants. Waist and hip circumferences were measured using standard protocols. The World Health Organization STEPS wise tool was used to assess risk factors associated with central obesity. Bi-variable and multi-variable binary logistic regression were used to identify factors associated with central obesity. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) have been reported to estimate the strength of associations.

Results

The overall prevalence of central obesity using waist circumference was 39.01% [(95% CI: 35.36–42.76; 15.44% for men and 53.12% for women)]. Multi-variable binary logistic regression analysis revealed that female sex (AOR = 12.93, 95% CI: 6.74–24.79), Age groups: 30–39 years old (AOR = 2.8, 95% CI: 1.59–4.94), 40–49 years (AOR = 7.66, 95% CI: 3.87–15.15), 50–59 years (AOR = 4.65, 95% CI: 2.19–9.89), ≥60 years (AOR = 12.67, 95% CI: 5.46–29.39), occupational status like: housewives (AOR = 5.21, 95% CI: 1.85–14.62), self-employed workers (AOR = 4.63, 95% CI: 1.62–13.24), government/private/non-government employees (AOR = 4.68, 95% CI: 1.47–14.88), and skipping breakfast (AOR = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.23–0.9) were significantly associated with central obesity.

Conclusions

Abdominal obesity has become an epidemic in Bale Zone’s towns in Southeastern Ethiopia. Female sex, age, being employed were positively associated with central obesity, while skipping breakfast was a protective factor.

Magnitude of central obesity and associated factors among adults working in government offices in Bedele town, Buno Bedele zone, Southwest Ethiopia

Objective:

Central obesity is an emerging public health problem globally and an independent risk factor for heart, blood vessels, and metabolic disorder. This study aimed to assess the central obesity and associated factors among adults working in government offices in Bedele town, Southwest Ethiopia, 2021.

Methods:

An institutional survey was conducted among randomly selected government offices. Anthropometric measurements were carried out. Face-to-face interview using standard questionnaires were also used to collect data. A total of 403 respondents were selected from the list of public office workers employed in Bedele Town. Data were entered into Epi data 3.1 then exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. Each variable with a p value less than 0.25 in the bivariate analysis was entered into logistic regression and p value 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results:

The response rate was 373 respondents (92.6%). The overall prevalence of central obesity among public office workers of Bedele town was 54.7%. Sitting for more than 5 h at workplace adjusted odds ratio = 2.911 (95% confidence interval = 1.644, 5.156), being a female adjusted odds ratio = 3.258 (95% confidence interval = 1.744, 6.047), age range of 40–49 (adjusted odds ratio = 4.520, 95% confidence interval = 1.798, 11.363), age ⩾ 50 years (adjusted odds ratio = 5.907, 95% confidence interval = 1.808, 19.297), being physically inactive (adjusted odds ratio = 4.594, 95% confidence interval = 2.313, 9.125), consumption of snack (adjusted odds ratio = 4.521, 95% confidence interval = 2.583, 7.913), and alcohol consumption (adjusted odds ratio = 2.324 95% confidence interval = 1.210, 4.463) were factors significantly associated with central obesity among office workers in Bedele town.

Conclusion:

The magnitude of central obesity was high among office workers in Bedele town and being female gender, older age, physical inactivity, consumption of snacks, and alcohol were associated with it. Physical exercise and a healthy lifestyle should be promoted to minimize the problem.

The magnitude of type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease risk factors among young adults in urban settings: a cross-sectional survey in Mwanza, Tanzania

Introduction

traditionally, non-communicable diseases were diseases of public health concern in developed countries. Due to economic transition, they are becoming more prevalent in low and middle-income countries. Despite the trend, little has been done in the population of young adults of developing countries. This research aimed to explore the magnitude of type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and abdominal obesity among the young adult population in an urban setting of Tanzania.

Methods

the current research used a cross-sectional community-based design, involving apparently healthy young adults aged 18 to 34 years, not known to have diabetes, hypertension, or dyslipidemia. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, medical history, anthropometry, blood pressure, and lipids were obtained per standard operating procedures and analyzed using STATA 13. Association between outcome variables (type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and abdominal obesity) and predictor variables (age, sex, education level, occupation, and economic status) were assessed by logistic regression.

Results

245 young adults with a median age of 21 (interquartile range [IQR]: 18-25) were recruited. Prevalence of diabetes mellitus and of impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) were 7.8% and 15.5% respectively. Abdominal obesity and dyslipidemia were present in 11.8% and 45.1% respectively. 34.3% had hypertension and the risk was significantly higher in males compared to females (OR 1.8, 95%CI 1.1, 3.1). The atherogenic coefficient was significantly associated with abdominal obesity; other atherogenic indices did not show significant associations with current disease conditions.

Conclusion

alarmingly high prevalence of diabetes mellitus, impaired glucose tolerance, hypertension, abdominal obesity, and dyslipidemia were observed among young adults in Mwanza. This study highlights the need for concerted efforts for interventions targeting young adults in combating diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors in Tanzania.

Central Obesity and Associated Factors Among Urban Adults in Dire Dawa Administrative City, Eastern Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Central obesity (CO) is a medical problem in which extra fat is accumulated in the abdomen and stomach extent that it may harm health. Furthermore, previous studies in Ethiopia predominantly relied on body mass index used to measure obesity and do not show distribution of fat. However, there is a paucity of information on the measurement of central obesity using waist circumference and associated factors in Ethiopia particularly in the study area. Hence, the purpose of this study is to assess the prevalence of central obesity and associated factors among urban adults in Dire Dawa, administrative city, Eastern Ethiopia.

METHODS

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 633 adults in selected kebeles of administrative city from October 15 to November 15, 2020. A multistage and systematic sampling procedure was used to select study participants. Central obesity is defined as a condition with waist circumference ≥83.7 cm for men and ≥78 cm for women with or without general obesity (GO). Odds ratio along with 95% confidence interval was estimated to identify factors associated with central obesity using multiple logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of central obesity was 76.1%; at 95% CI (73%, 80%). Associated factors of central obesity were age 45 years and above [AOR = 3.75, 95% CI (1.86, 7.55)], being female [AOR = 2.52, 95% CI: (1.62, 3.94)], alcohol consumption [AOR = 2.61, 95% CI: (1.69, 4.05], physical inactivity [AOR = 2.05, 95% CI: (1.23, 3.42)], and two hour and more time spent on watching television [AOR = 3.30, 95% CI: (1.59, 6.82)].

CONCLUSION

The study shows central obesity was high in the study area. Age 45 years and above, being females, married, physically inactive, alcohol consumption, and spending a long time watching television was associated with central obesity. Having regular physical activity, limiting alcohol drinking, and limiting time spent watching television were recommended to prevent central obesity and associated risk among adults.

Levels and correlates of physical activity and capacity among HIV-infected compared to HIV-uninfected individuals

INTRODUCTION

In the HIV-infected individuals, physical activity improves physical strength, quality of life and reduces the risk of developing non-communicable diseases. In Sub-Saharan Africa, HIV-infected patients report being less active compared to HIV-uninfected individuals. We assessed the levels and correlates of objectively measured physical activity and capacity among HIV-infected antiretroviral therapy (ART)-naive individuals compared to HIV-uninfected individuals in Mwanza, Tanzania.

METHOD

We conducted a cross-sectional study among newly diagnosed HIV-infected ART-naive individuals and HIV-uninfected individuals frequency-matched for age and sex. Socio-demographic data, anthropometrics, CD4 counts, haemoglobin level, and C-reactive protein (CRP) were collected. Physical activity energy expenditure (PAEE) was assessed as measure of physical activity whereas sleeping heart rate (SHR) and grip strength were assessed as measures of physical capacity. Multivariable linear regression was used to assess the correlates associated with physical activity and capacity.

RESULTS

A total of 272 HIV-infected and 119 HIV-uninfected individuals, mean age 39 years and 60% women participated in the study. Compared to HIV-uninfected individuals, HIV-infected had poorer physical activity and capacity: lower PAEE (-7.3 kj/kg/day, 95% CI: -11.2, -3.3), elevated SHR (7.7 beats/min, 95%CI: 10.1, 5.3) and reduced grip strength (-4.7 kg, 95%CI: -6.8, -2.8). In HIV-infected individuals, low body mass index, moderate-severe anaemia, low CD4 counts and high CRP were associated with lower physical activity and capacity. In HIV-uninfected individuals, abdominal obesity and moderate anaemia were associated with lower physical activity and capacity.

CONCLUSION

HIV-infected participants had lower levels of physical activity and capacity than HIV-uninfected participants. Correlates of physical activity and capacity differed by HIV status. Management of HIV and related conditions needs to be provided effectively in health care facilities. Interventions promoting physical activity in these populations will be of importance to improve their health and reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases.

Magnitude of central obesity and associated factors among adults working in government offices in Bedele town, Buno Bedele zone, Southwest Ethiopia

Objective:

Central obesity is an emerging public health problem globally and an independent risk factor for heart, blood vessels, and metabolic disorder. This study aimed to assess the central obesity and associated factors among adults working in government offices in Bedele town, Southwest Ethiopia, 2021.

Methods:

An institutional survey was conducted among randomly selected government offices. Anthropometric measurements were carried out. Face-to-face interview using standard questionnaires were also used to collect data. A total of 403 respondents were selected from the list of public office workers employed in Bedele Town. Data were entered into Epi data 3.1 then exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. Each variable with a p value less than 0.25 in the bivariate analysis was entered into logistic regression and p value 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results:

The response rate was 373 respondents (92.6%). The overall prevalence of central obesity among public office workers of Bedele town was 54.7%. Sitting for more than 5 h at workplace adjusted odds ratio = 2.911 (95% confidence interval = 1.644, 5.156), being a female adjusted odds ratio = 3.258 (95% confidence interval = 1.744, 6.047), age range of 40–49 (adjusted odds ratio = 4.520, 95% confidence interval = 1.798, 11.363), age ⩾ 50 years (adjusted odds ratio = 5.907, 95% confidence interval = 1.808, 19.297), being physically inactive (adjusted odds ratio = 4.594, 95% confidence interval = 2.313, 9.125), consumption of snack (adjusted odds ratio = 4.521, 95% confidence interval = 2.583, 7.913), and alcohol consumption (adjusted odds ratio = 2.324 95% confidence interval = 1.210, 4.463) were factors significantly associated with central obesity among office workers in Bedele town.

Conclusion:

The magnitude of central obesity was high among office workers in Bedele town and being female gender, older age, physical inactivity, consumption of snacks, and alcohol were associated with it. Physical exercise and a healthy lifestyle should be promoted to minimize the problem.

Central obesity and its predictors among adults in Nekemte town, West Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Abdominal obesity is emerging as a major contributor to the worsening of non-communicable diseases. There is a dearth of data on central obesity among adults in Ethiopia in general and in the study area in particular. The aim of this research was to determine the prevalence of central obesity and its predictors among adults in Nekemte, Ethiopia.

METHODS

Community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Nekemte town from March to April 2020. Multistage sampling technique was used to select 466 study participants. Interviewer-administered structured questionnaire was used for data collection. The data were entered into Epi Data 3.1 and analyzed by SPSS Version 25. Bivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify candidate variables at p < 0.25. Finally, multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify the independent predictors of central obesity at p < 0.05 with 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

Prevalence of central obesity in this study was found to be 28.4% (95% CI 24.5-32.6). Where, the prevalence was higher among females (37%) than males (18%). Being a female (AOR = 5.59, 95% CI 2.95-10.57), age range of 40-49 years (AOR = 4.91, 95% CI 2.17-11.13), ⩾ 50 years (AOR = 8.16, 95% CI 3.21-20.72), being in marriage (AOR = 9.306, 95% CI 4.23-20.44), highest wealth status (AOR = 7.94, 95% CI 3.76-16.76), consumption of fast foods (AOR = 3.022, 95% CI 1.375-6.64), and lack of knowledge about obesity (AOR = 3.39, 95% CI 1.93-5.95) were factors associated with central obesity.

CONCLUSION

The study revealed a moderate prevalence of central obesity in the study area. Being a female, older age, being in marriage, richest household wealth status, consumption of fast foods, and lack of knowledge on obesity were identified as factors associated with central obesity. Comprehensive health education and promotion on healthy diet should be encouraged focusing on females, married individuals, and older ages.

Effect of community-based lifestyle education intervention to reduce cardiovascular diseases risk factors among vulnerable population in Dodoma city, Tanzania: a cluster randomized controlled trial study protocol

Tanzania is experiencing the rise of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and associated risk factors including hypertension, obesity and diabetes mellitus. Health education and healthy lifestyle promotion is an effective approach toward primary prevention of the risk factors and can be achieved through community-based intervention. The objective of this protocol is to test the effectiveness of community-based lifestyle education intervention in reducing CVDs risk factors among vulnerable population in Dodoma City. This protocol is designed as a cluster-randomized controlled trial with a quantitative approach in which participants aged from 31 years will be assigned randomly to a control or intervention group. A total of 800 participants will be recruited in the study. The study will consist of six stages (baseline, first to fourth follow-up, and end-line surveys) in 6 months for both the intervention and the control group. The intervention will be implemented twice-monthly for the first 3 months, then monthly for the last 3 months. In each stage, participants from all groups will be measured for biological and behavioral CVDs risk factors. Health education and a healthy lifestyle promotion for prevention of CVDs risk factors will be provided to the intervention group only during each stage. The main outcome measures will be changes in body weight, blood pressure, blood glucose, dietary habits, and physical exercise in the intervention compared with the control group. Independent and paired t-tests will be employed to make comparisons between and within groups. P-values of less than 0.05 will be considered statistically significant.

Prevalence and associated factors of abdominal obesity among the adult population in Woldia town, Northeast Ethiopia, 2020: Community-based cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of abdominal obesity has been dramatically increasing both in developed and developing countries, including Ethiopia. It is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, type-2 diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, and cancer. However, there is inadequate data regarding the prevalence and associated factors of abdominal obesity among adult population in Ethiopia.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of abdominal obesity among the adult population in Woldia town, Northeast Ethiopia in 2020.

METHOD

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Woldia town from March 20 to April 20, 2020. Data on socio-demographic, dietary history, and anthropometric characteristics were collected from 802 adults using the World Health Organization stepwise technique. Multi-stage sampling was employed to select the study subjects. Data were cleaned, coded, and entered by EPI-info Version 7 and were exported to SPSS Version 20 for further analysis. To indicate the strength of association, odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were used.

RESULT

From a total of 823 respondents 802 were involved with a response rate of 97.4%. The overall prevalence of central obesity based on waist to hip ratio was 16.5% with 95% CI (14.2-19.2). Female sex [AOR = 13.3, 95% CI: 7.01-25.39), high wealth rank (AOR = 2.95, 95% CI: 1.21-7.17), single marital status (AOR = 0.16, 95%CI: 0.04-0.58), age from 35 to 55 years (AOR = 4.3, 95% CI: 2.22-7.99), age greater than 55 years (AOR = 3.8, 95%CI: 1.36-10.78), secondary educational level (AOR = 1.83, 95% CI: 1.05-3.18), eat more protein (AOR = 4.22, 95% CI: 1.26-14.22), and consumption of snacks (AOR = 2.78, 95% CI: 1.68-4.61) were significantly associated with abdominal obesity.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of abdominal obesity among adults in Woldia town is high, and has become an emerging nutrition-related problem. Being female, older age, being in a high wealth rank, consuming more meat, having secondary education level, and consuming snacks were the risk factors of abdominal obesity. Nutrition interventions should target adults mainly focusing on the alarmingly increase in nutrition problems, such as abdominal obesity, in Ethiopia with specific attention to females.

Setting - based prevalence and correlates of central obesity: findings from a cross-sectional study among formal sector employees in Dodoma City, Central Tanzania

BACKGROUND

Obesity at the workplace has been associated with symptoms of lower self-esteem, increased individual and employer healthcare costs, increased absenteeism and presenteeism and reduced productivity. Therefore, this study was designed to study the prevalence and correlates of central obesity among formal sector employees in Dodoma City.

METHODS

Study design was a cross-sectional survey conducted from March to June, 2019. Participants were employees from formal sector employment defined as those paid regular monthly wage and with either a secured permanent or temporary contract. Simple random sampling was used to select four out of fifteen large buildings hosting various establishments. Respondents were obtained conveniently and interviewed face to face. Central obesity was defined as a waist circumference greater than 102 cm for males and greater than 88 cm for females. Chi-square test was conducted to assess the differences among the groups. Simple and multiple logistic regression models were fitted to identify the correlates of central obesity.

RESULTS

A total of 392 respondents (98% response rate) agreed and participated in the study. The overall prevalence of central obesity was found to be 41.8% (164/392). The prevalence of central obesity was significantly higher among females (67.4% p < 0.001), respondents aged ≥51 years (60%, p = < 0.001), administrators (55.1% p = < 0.05), respondents with salary of > 1,000,000 Tanzanian Shilling (TSh.) per month (54.4%, p = < 0.05), respondents who eat homemade meals at the workplace (64.2%, p = < 0.05) and respondents with hypertension (62.5%, p = < 0.05). Correlates of central obesity were found to be female sex (AOR = 9.53; 95% CI: 5.49, 16.78), increased age, eating homemade meals at the workplace (AOR = 2.32; 95% CI: 1.04, 4.19) and hypertension (AOR = 3.15; 95% CI: 1.41, 6.91).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study revealed high prevalence of central obesity among formal sector employees in Dodoma City. Scholars and stakeholders are urged to generate more evidences and design appropriate interventions to curb the situation.

Leuconostoc mesenteroides mediates an electrogenic pathway to attenuate the accumulation of abdominal fat mass induced by high fat diet

Although several electrogenic bacteria have been identified, the physiological effect of electricity generated by bacteria on host health remains elusive. We found that probiotic Leuconostoc mesenteroides (L. mesenteroides) can metabolize linoleic acid to yield electricity via an intracellular cyclophilin A-dependent pathway. Inhibition of cyclophilin A significantly abolished bacterial electricity and lowered the adhesion of L. mesenteroides to the human gut epithelial cell line. Butyrate from L. mesenteroides in the presence of linoleic acid were detectable and mediated free fatty acid receptor 2 (Ffar2) to reduce the lipid contents in differentiating 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Oral administration of L. mesenteroides plus linoleic acid remarkably reduced high-fat-diet (HFD)-induced formation of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE), a reactive oxygen species (ROS) biomarker, and decreased abdominal fat mass in mice. The reduction of 4-HNE and abdominal fat mass was reversed when cyclophilin A inhibitor-pretreated bacteria were administered to mice. Our studies present a novel mechanism of reducing abdominal fat mass by electrogenic L. mesenteroides which may yield electrons to enhance colonization and sustain high amounts of butyrate to limit ROS during adipocyte differentiation.

Exploring health literacy in Wuhan, China: a cross-sectional analysis

Background

In recent years, research on health literacy has become increasingly focused on the health care system and public health. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate health literacy and analyse the risk factors that affect health literacy in Wuhan, China.

Methods

Multistage stratified random sampling was used to select 5304 urban and rural residents aged 15 to 69 years from 204 monitoring points in 15 districts of Wuhan. Using the Chinese Citizen Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ) (2018 edition), a face-to-face survey was conducted from November to December 2018. Risk factors that may affect health literacy were assessed using the Chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression models.

Results

The knowledge rate of health literacy was relatively low (19.3%). The knowledge rate of health-related behaviour and lifestyle (BAL, 17.3%) was the lowest of the three aspects of health literacy, and the knowledge rate of chronic diseases (CD, 19.0%) was the lowest of the six dimensions of health literacy. Respondents who lived in urban areas, had higher education levels, worked as medical staff, had a higher household income and did not suffer from chronic diseases were likely to have higher health literacy.

Conclusions

The health literacy levels of citizens in Wuhan are insufficient and need to improve.

Prevalence and sex-specific patterns of metabolic syndrome in rural Uganda

Background and aims

In sub-Saharan Africa, infectious diseases are still the leading causes of mortality; however, this may soon be surpassed by non-communicable illnesses, namely hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This study determined the prevalence and patterns of metabolic syndrome and cardio-risk factors in men and women in rural Uganda.

Methods

A household-based, cross-sectional survey was carried out following the WHO STEP-wise approach to surveillance. It included demographic and lifestyle questionnaires, anthropometric measurements and biochemical analyses. Of the 200 randomly recruited participants, 183 successfully completed two steps of the study and 161 provided blood samples.

Results

Data were collected from 183 adults, aged 18–69 years; 62% were female. Based on the National Cholesterol Education Program-Adult Treatment Panel-III criteria, the prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 19.1% (95% CI 14.0 to 22.5). Elevated fasting plasma glucose was observed in 14.2% (95% CI 9.1 to 19.3) of participants, hypertriglyceridaemia in 16.9% (95% CI 12.1 to 23.1); hypertension in 36.1% (95% CI 29.0 to 43.0) and 52.5% (95% CI 45.2 to 59.6) had low HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol. Abdominal obesity was found in 24.6% (95% CI 18.8 to 31.4) of participants. Sex disparities were significant for several risk factors. Females had significantly higher prevalence of abdominal obesity (38.6% vs 1.5% in males, p=0.001) and twice the rates of low HDL (65.8% vs 30.4%, p=0.001). Men tended to have higher but not significant rates of hypertension (42.0% vs 32.5%) and smoked significantly more than women (49.3% vs 21.1%, p<0.001). Alcohol consumption was also higher in men (55.1% vs 18.4%, p<0.001) and quantities consumed were approximately three times greater than in females (p<0.001).

Conclusion

Metabolic syndrome exists at worrying rates in the rural Ugandan population. Sex disparities are evident in risk factor prevalence, reflecting physiological variables and deeply entrenched cultural and lifestyle norms.

Attitude Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help Among Community-Dwelling Population in China

OBJECTIVE

To explore the attitudes and factors in seeking professional psychological help among a Chinese community-dwelling population in order to promote positive help-seeking behaviors and better utilization of mental health services.

METHODS

Using system and simple random sampling with Kish selection table methods, 912 community-dwelling residents were included in this study and asked about their attitudes toward seeking professional psychological help, depression symptoms, family function, depression literacy, help-seeking intention, and stigma.

RESULTS

Scores on the Attitudes Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help scale (ATSPPH-SF) indicated a neutral attitude toward openness to seeking treatment for psychological problems and a negative attitude toward the value and need to seek treatment with a negative total score. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that gender, age, social support (employment status and family function), depression literacy, stigma, and help-seeking intention are significantly associated with attitude toward seeking professional psychological help.

CONCLUSION

The overall attitude toward seeking professional psychological help is not optimistic, thus, more efforts are needed to enhance understanding. Effective interventions including mental health education, training of mental health professionals, and popularizing the use of mental health services are essential, especially for the at-risk population.

Clustering of Elevated Blood Pressure, Elevated Blood Glucose, and Abdominal Obesity Among Adults in Dire Dawa: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Evidence shows that the presence of a single component of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) increases the risk of developing the MetS later in life. This study estimated the prevalence and associated factors of abdominal obesity, elevated blood pressure, elevated blood glucose, and the 3-factor MetS components among urban adults in Dire Dawa, East Ethiopia.

METHODS

Community-based cross-sectional data were collected from 872 adults aged 25-64 years. The joint interim statement (JIS) was used to define the MetS components. The dependent outcome variables were both the individual and the 3-factor MetS components. A robust variance Poisson regression model was used to directly estimate the prevalence ratio (PR) of risk factors.

RESULTS

The prevalence of the 3-factor MetS components (abdominal obesity, elevated blood pressure, and elevated blood glucose) was 9.5% (95% CI: 7.7, 11.7). Women had two times higher prevalence of the 3-factor MetS components compared with men, 11.6% (95% CI: 9.2, 14.5) vs 5.2% (95% CI: 3.2, 8.5). A higher prevalence of abdominal obesity, 46.4% (95% CI: 43.1, 49.8), followed by a raised blood pressure, 42.7% (95% CI: 39.4, 46.0), was observed among study subjects. The presence of a single MetS component had an associated cluster of other components: 33.7% of subjects with elevated blood glucose, 22.3% with elevated blood pressure, and 20.5% with abdominal obesity had also the 3-factor MetS components. Age, sex, body mass index, waist circumference, and physical activity were significantly associated with the individual components or the 3-factor MetS components.

CONCLUSION

A higher prevalence of the individual components and the presence of clustering with a single factor identified call for the need of community screening. Interventions targeting both abdominal and general obesity through physical activity and lifestyle modification can contribute towards reducing cardiometabolic risk factors with due attention given to women and older adults.

Prevalence of abdominal obesity and its correlates among adults in a peri-urban population of West Africa

Introduction

Prevalence of abdominal obesity dramatically increases both in developed countries and in developing countries. In several regions in Africa, obesity (especially abdominal) is seen as a sign of affluence, dignity and respect. The objective of this study was to determine prevalence of abdominal obesity and seek some factors associated in a peri-urban population of West Africa.

Methods

During April-May 2014, a cross-sectional study was conducted in Anonkoi 3, a neighborhood of Abidjan (Ivory Coast). Adults of 18 years old and over, not bedridden were included. Sampling was done in two stages. First, we selected the households. Then in each household we randomly chose one adult. Abdominal obesity was measured using a measuring tape and defined by waist circumference ratio (TT) to hip circumference (TH) greater or equal to 0.80 in women and greater or equal to 0.95 in men. Data from sociodemographic, corpulence, socioeconomic level, food habit, level of physical activity and blood pressure were analyzed. Univariate analysis using the Pearson KHI-square test at a significance level of 0.05 and a logistic regression was performed.

Results

We visited 486 households in which 486 people aged 36.1 ± 12.83 years agreed to participate in the study. Prevalence of abdominal obesity was 50.8%. Those aged 30–45 years, women, couples, those with a primary level of education, the poor, people with high blood pressure, subjects less active and obese (general obesity) had more abdominal obesity. After logistic regression, individuals aged 30–45 years (adjusted OR = 2.35; p = 0.004) and 45 years and older (adjusted OR = 3.18; p = 0.001); females (adjusted OR = 49.05; p = 0.000); hypertension (adjusted OR = 2.26; p = 0.014) and obesity (OR = 2.94; p = 0.009).

Conclusion

This work allowed us to estimate a relatively high prevalence of abdominal obesity in a peri-urban African population.