THE DETERMINATION OF THE IMPACT OF EPIDEMIOLOGY ON PREVENTION AND CONTROL OF OBESITY AMONG ADULTS (A CASE STUDY OF NINGI LGA BAUCHI STATE)

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CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

In affluent societies, obesity is the most common nutritional disorder. Obesity is a condition characterized by an abnormally excessive level of body fat (Edinburgh 1995). It is defined as abnormal adipose tissue growth caused by fat cell enlargement (hypertrophic obesity) or an increase in the number of fat cells (hyperplastic obesity) or a combination of the two (Park 2004). Excess fat accumulates as a result of an imbalance in energy intake and expenditure. Obesity's importance cannot be overstated because it is linked to increased morbidity and mortality. It predisposes to the development of serious diseases and reduces the efficiency and happiness of those who suffer from it.

Obesity is a chronic disease that affects both developed and developing countries, and it affects both children and adults. Obesity is now so common that it is displacing more traditional public health concerns, such as malnutrition (Park  2004). It is now a worldwide phenomenon. It is extremely difficult to assess the size of the problem and compare prevalence rates across countries because no exact figures are available, and definitions of obesity are not standardized. However, it is estimated that 10 to 20% of children and adolescents in developed countries are affected (Stone, & Saxon, 2005).

Overweight is defined as having an excess of body weight but not necessarily body fat; a body mass index (BMI) of 25 – 29.9. In children aged two years and older, the Body Mass Index (BMI) is acceptable for determining obesity (Deurenberg, Westrate & Seidell 1991). Although children and adults have the same BMI number, the criteria used to interpret the meaning of the BMI number for children and teens differ from those used for adults. BMI age and gender percentiles are used (www.cdc) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has published tables to help determine this in children (www.cdc.gov). Overweight (but not obese) is defined as a BMI between the overweight and obesity cut-off values, whereas obese is defined as a BMI greater than the obesity cut-off value (www.cdc.gov). The BMI for normal weight is lower than the overweight cut-off value (Stone, & Saxon, 2005).

Epidemiology is the scientific study of the distribution and determinants of health-related events, states, and processes in populations. It involves the analysis of patterns, causes, and effects of health and disease conditions within specified populations. The primary goals of epidemiology are to identify the factors influencing the occurrence of diseases, understand the natural history and progression of illnesses, and inform public health interventions for prevention and control (Caterson & Gill, 2002).

1.2 Statement of the problem

Obesity is a health hazard and a detriment to one's well-being, as evidenced by increased morbidity and mortality (Park 2004). It plays an important role in the natural history of other chronic and noncommunicable diseases. Obesity is now recognized as a serious public health concern due to its rising prevalence and numerous negative health consequences (Kosen, 2018). Chronic disease incidence is rising much faster in developing countries than in developed countries. There is compelling evidence that childhood obesity is becoming more prevalent in low- and middle-income countries. In many developing countries, malnutrition and obesity coexist (Katz, 2007). Obesity has numerous health consequences. The first issues that arise in these obese children are usually emotional or psychological in nature. Obesity often leads to serious conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep problems, and cancer. Other disorders include liver disease, menarche or early puberty, eating disorders such as anorexia, skin infections, asthma, and other respiratory problems (Mayoclinic 2009). According to studies, overweight people are more likely to become diseased. Obesity during adolescence has been linked to an increase in adulthood mortality rates. Obese people are frequently subjected to teasing, harassment, and ridicule at school. They may also face harassment, discrimination, and name-calling from family members and neighbors at home. These can result in anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, frustration, and even withdrawal. According to a study, obesity is on the rise, and physical inactivity, disordered eating perceptions, and disordered behaviors are linked to higher rates of overweight and obesity. Obese people have carotid arteries that have aged prematurely by up to thirty years, according to a 2008 study, as well as abnormal cholesterol levels. A 15-year-old obese child has the carotid artery of a 45-year-old. According to World Health Organization projections, noncommunicable diseases will account for roughly three-quarters of all deaths in the developing world by 2020 (Katz, 2007), and adolescent obesity is likely to be a major risk factor in this. This emerging public health issue of rising childhood obesity rates in developing countries will almost certainly impose a massive socioeconomic and public health burden on poorer countries in the near future. Nigeria is a developing country in Africa.

The escalating prevalence of obesity has emerged as a critical public health challenge, necessitating a comprehensive investigation into the role and impact of epidemiology in both the prevention and control of this widespread health issue. Despite the growing awareness of obesity as a multifaceted problem affecting individuals and communities globally, there is a significant gap in understanding how epidemiological approaches can effectively contribute to the prevention and control strategies. There exists a gap in comprehending the specific contributions of epidemiology in designing, implementing, and evaluating interventions for the prevention and control of obesity. The nuanced ways in which epidemiological insights can inform evidence-based strategies need to be elucidated. While numerous preventive measures and interventions are being implemented to curb the rise of obesity, there is a lack of in-depth assessment regarding the effectiveness of these strategies. Understanding how epidemiology informs the design and assessment of prevention initiatives is essential for refining and optimizing public health efforts. The control of obesity poses distinct challenges, and the integration of epidemiological principles into control strategies remains underexplored. Examining the role of epidemiology in identifying and managing existing cases of obesity is crucial for developing targeted and impactful control measures. There is a need to explore the variability in the application of epidemiological methods across different populations, demographics, and regions concerning obesity prevention and control. Identifying factors that contribute to this variability will enhance the precision and effectiveness of tailored interventions. With obesity trends continually evolving, understanding the emerging patterns and projecting future trajectories is paramount. Investigating how epidemiological surveillance can anticipate and respond to these trends is critical for proactive public health planning and resource allocation. The incorporation of epidemiological findings into policy development for obesity prevention and control is not well-documented. This study aims to investigate the extent to which epidemiological evidence informs policymaking and explore avenues for enhancing this integration. Hence, this study seeks to investigate the determination of the impact of epidemiology on prevention and control of obesity among adults with precised reference to Ningi LGA Bauchi State.

1.3 Objective of the study

1. Assess the prevalence of obesity among adults in Ningi LGA, Bauchi State.

2. Identify the impact of epidemiology on prevention of obesity among adults in Ningi LGA Bauchi state.

3. Evaluate the impact of epidemiology on the control of obesity among adults in Ningi LGA Bauchi state.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What is the prevalence of obesity among adults in Ningi LGA, Bauchi State?

2. What is the impact of epidemiology on prevention of obesity among adults in Ningi LGA Bauchi state?

3. What is the impact of epidemiology on the control of obesity among adults in Ningi LGA Bauchi state?

1.5 Research hypotheses

Ho1: The prevalence of obesity among adults in Ningi LGA, Bauchi State is low.

Ho2: Epidemiology does not have any significant impact on prevention of obesity among adults in Ningi LGA Bauchi state.

Ho3: Epidemiology does not have any significant impact on the control of obesity among adults in Ningi LGA Bauchi state.

1.6 Significance of the study

Theoretical Significance:

1. Advancement of Knowledge: Investigating the impact of epidemiology on the prevention and control of obesity among adults contributes to the advancement of scientific knowledge. It helps in understanding the complex interplay of factors influencing obesity trends, from demographic variations to the effectiveness of public health interventions.

2. Epidemiological Theory Development: The research can contribute to the development and refinement of epidemiological theories related to obesity. By identifying patterns, risk factors, and causal pathways, the study enhances the theoretical framework that guides future research in the field of obesity prevention.

3. Public Health Understanding: The theoretical significance extends to the broader field of public health. Understanding the role of epidemiology in obesity prevention provides insights into how public health strategies can be designed and implemented to address one of the most pressing global health challenges.

Practical Significance:

1. Informed Policy Development: Research findings can inform the development of evidence-based policies for obesity prevention and control. Policymakers can use the insights gained to design and implement interventions that are tailored to specific populations, increasing the likelihood of success.

2. Resource Allocation: Practical significance lies in the efficient allocation of resources. Knowing the impact of epidemiology on obesity prevention helps governments and health organizations allocate resources effectively, prioritizing interventions that have demonstrated efficacy in reducing obesity rates among adults.

3. Improved Health Outcomes: Ultimately, the practical significance of this research is in its potential to contribute to improved health outcomes. Successful prevention and control of obesity can lead to a decrease in associated health risks and conditions, reducing the burden on healthcare systems and improving the overall well-being of the adult population.

1.7 Scope of the study

This study focuses to assess the prevalence of obesity among adults in Ningi LGA, Bauchi State, identify the impact of epidemiology on prevention of obesity among adults in Ningi LGA Bauchi state, and evaluate the impact of epidemiology on the control of obesity among adults in Ningi LGA Bauchi state. Hence residents of Ningi LGA, Bauchi State shall serve as enrolled participants for this study.

1.8 Limitation of the study

Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. The significant constraint are:

Time: The researcher encountered time constraint as the researcher had to carry out this research along side other academic activities such as attending lectures and other educational activities required of her.

Finance: The researcher incurred more financial expenses in carrying out this study such as typesetting, printing, sourcing for relevant materials, literature, or information and in the data collection process.

Availability of Materials: The researcher encountered challenges in sourcing for literature in this study. The scarcity of literature on the subject due to the nature of the discourse was a limitation to this study.

1.9 Definition of terms

1. Epidemiology: Epidemiology refers to the scientific study of the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events in specified populations and the application of this study to the control of health problems. In the context of this research, epidemiology specifically focuses on patterns, risk factors, and the dynamics of obesity among the adult population.

2. Obesity: Obesity is a medical condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of body fat, often leading to adverse health effects. In the context of this study, obesity pertains to the specific weight condition among adults, and its determination involves assessing prevalence, causes, and associated health risks.

3. Prevention: Prevention refers to the systematic efforts and interventions aimed at reducing the incidence, onset, and progression of health conditions, with the ultimate goal of minimizing the impact and burden of the targeted issue. In this research, prevention focuses on strategies to mitigate the occurrence and exacerbation of obesity among adults.

4. Control: Control, in the context of this research, involves the implementation of measures and interventions to manage and restrain the prevalence and adverse consequences of obesity among adults. This includes strategies aimed at both preventing new cases and managing existing cases effectively.

5. Impact: Impact, in the context of the study, refers to the measurable effects and outcomes resulting from the application of epidemiological principles and interventions in the prevention and control of obesity among adults. This includes changes in prevalence rates, improvements in health indicators, and the overall effectiveness of public health measures.

6. Adults: For the purpose of this research, "adults" refer to individuals who have reached the age of maturity, typically defined as 18 years or older. The study focuses on understanding and addressing obesity-related issues within this specific demographic group.

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