# Dietary determinants and public health implications of obesity in the Aseer region, Saudi Arabia

## TL;DR

This study examines obesity in the Aseer region of Saudi Arabia, finding it is common among women and older adults, with physical inactivity as a key risk factor.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific demographic and lifestyle predictors of obesity in the Aseer region using local data.

## Key findings

- 25.3% of participants were obese, with higher rates among women and those aged ≥36 years.
- Physical inactivity and being single were independent predictors of obesity.
- Frequent sugary food consumption was linked to obesity but not significant in multivariate analysis.

## Abstract

Obesity has emerged as a major public health concern in Saudi Arabia, driven by rapid lifestyle transitions and dietary changes. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors of obesity among adults in the Aseer region.

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 430 adults residing in the Aseer region. Data was collected through an online self-administered questionnaire, including sociodemographic factors, dietary intake, and lifestyle habits. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression to examine associations with obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²).

Among participants, 25.3% were obese, and 48.1% were overweight. Obesity was significantly associated with female gender (73.4% of the obese group), age ≥ 36 years, and marital status (p < 0.05). Frequent consumption of sugary foods and physical inactivity also emerged as significant predictors. Logistic regression revealed female gender, being single, and a lack of physical activity as independent predictors of obesity (p < 0.05).

Obesity prevalence in Aseer is substantial, particularly among women and older adults. Tailored interventions that promote physical activity should be prioritized, and although frequent sugary food intake was associated with obesity in bivariate analysis, this relationship did not remain statistically significant in the multivariate model and should therefore be interpreted with caution.