Abstract

The rise in global obesity rate has presents a major public health challenges in both the developed and the developing world.
Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the socio-demographic factors associated with overweight/obesity among students (18-32years) in Cavendish University Uganda.
Methodology: A descriptive cross sectional and analytical study design were used employing quantitative data collection approach using 352 population sample size among Cavendish university students. Consecutive sampling techniques were used; anthropometric measurements of BMI with structured questionnaire were used to collect data. Data were statistically analyzed using SPSS.
Results: The prevalence of overweight/obesity among the student was 15.1%, this result reflects that 2 out of every 10 Cavendish University students were overweight/obese. Religion (X2=12.139, P-value=0.007), marital status (X2=17.044, P-value=0.000), pocket money per month (X2=12.424, P-value=0.002) and employment status (X2=7.060, P-value=0.029) were the socio-demographic factors found to be associated with being overweight/ obese. After adjusting for the odd ratio, the variables found to be statistically significant with being overweight/obese were as follows: students who practice protestant religion (AOR=5.433, CI=17.341-1.702), students who practice other religion such as seventh day Adventist, free thinker etc (AOR=3.305, CI=9.931-1.099), students who practice catholic religion (AOR=1.259, CI=3.375-0.470). Students who are cohabiting (AOR=1.965, CI=4.084-0.945). Those whose pocket money per month is within the range of 201,000-500,000 UGX (AOR=4.176, CI=10.982-1.588).
Conclusion: This study concluded that the prevalence of overweight/obesity among Cavendish university students (ages 18-35) is moderately high. Religions, marital status, pocket money per month and employment status were the factors associated with overweight/obesity. Recommendation: Health education, recreational activities, social clubs, orientation & sensitization of young adult on how to overcome the growing cases of overweight/obesity.

Keywords: Obesity; Overweight; Socio-demographic factors; Body mass index