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Investigating the Association between Unhealthy Dietary Habits and Obesity among Libyan Adults

Author

Listed:
  • Hamdi Lemamsha

    (Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Omar Al-Mukhtar, Al-Bayda Campus, Labraq Road, Al-Bayda B1L12, Libya)

  • Gurch Randhawa

    (Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, Putteridge Bury Campus, Hitchin Road, Luton LU2 8LE, UK)

  • Chris Papadopoulos

    (Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, Putteridge Bury Campus, Hitchin Road, Luton LU2 8LE, UK)

Abstract

Background: Although an increasing number of studies have reported on nutrition transition and unhealthy eating habits (UEHs) worldwide, there is a paucity of studies on UEHs in the Arab region, particularly in Libya. Aim: This study investigated the associations between obesity among Libyan adults and UEHs. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted at the five major districts in Benghazi, Libya. A multistage cluster sampling strategy was implemented to choose and recruit Libyan adults. Anthropometric measurements were gathered by highly qualified nurses, using the Segmental Body Composition Monitor and a portable Stadiometer. The study used and adapted the two Self-administered questionnaires: the WHO STEPS Instrument and eating behaviors linked with obesity questionnaire. Results : Among a total of 401 participants who were successfully recruited in this study, 253 (63%) were female (aged 20–65 years), the response rate achieved was 78%. The prevalence of obesity amongst Libyan adults was estimated to be 42.4%. The results revealed the presence of a significant association between obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m 2 ) and five UEHs for Libyan men and six UEHs for Libyan women. For Libyan men, an association was found between obesity and the following five explanatory factors: fast food intake in a day and a week, which were (OR: 2.52, 95% CI: 4.04–12.32) and (OR: 4.65, 95% CI: 1.04–9.46), respectively; large food portion sizes consumed at one sitting (OR: 19.54, 95% CI: 1.41–27.74); a high frequency of skipping breakfast either in a typical day or a week, which were (OR: 0.02, 95% CI: 0.01–0.77) and (OR: 0.03, 95% CI: 0.01–0.24), respectively. For Libyan women, a significant association was found between obesity and the following six explanatory factors: fast food intake in a day and a week, which were (OR: 2.14, 95% CI: 3.32–11.12) and (OR: 5.5, 95% CI: 1.88–16.11), respectively; intake of sugar-sweetened beverages in a typical week (OR: 4.02, 95% CI: 1.35–11.99); and large food portion sizes consumed at one sitting at one sitting (OR: 3.40, 95% CI: 1.18–9.84); and a high frequency of skipping breakfast either in a typical day or a week, which were (OR: 0.11, 95% CI: 0.03–0.43) and (OR: 0.12, 95% CI: 0.08–0.63), respectively. Conclusions : The findings of the study reveal areas of action for Libyan researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and government officials about UEHs in the Libyan context. This could inform establishing and developing new interventions for preventing and controlling the obesity epidemic through food system improvements.

Suggested Citation

  • Hamdi Lemamsha & Gurch Randhawa & Chris Papadopoulos, 2022. "Investigating the Association between Unhealthy Dietary Habits and Obesity among Libyan Adults," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(3), pages 1-18, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:19:y:2022:i:3:p:1076-:d:728057
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Carl Lachat & Stephen Otchere & Dominique Roberfroid & Abubakari Abdulai & Florencia Maria Aguirre Seret & Jelena Milesevic & Godfrey Xuereb & Vanessa Candeias & Patrick Kolsteren, 2013. "Diet and Physical Activity for the Prevention of Noncommunicable Diseases in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Policy Review," PLOS Medicine, Public Library of Science, vol. 10(6), pages 1-19, June.
    2. Hamdi Lemamsha & Chris Papadopoulos & Gurch Randhawa, 2018. "Perceived Environmental Factors Associated with Obesity in Libyan Men and Women," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 15(2), pages 1-16, February.
    3. Woodward-Lopez, G. & Gosliner, W. & Samuels, S.E. & Craypo, L. & Kao, J. & Crawford, P.B., 2010. "Lessons learned from Evaluations of California's statewide school nutrition standards," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 100(11), pages 2137-2145.
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