Background of the Study
Urbanization is a global trend, with more people moving to cities in search of better economic opportunities, improved living standards, and better healthcare. However, while urbanization brings benefits such as access to healthcare, education, and infrastructure, it also poses significant health risks, particularly the rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, and cancers (Fajemirokun & Ojo, 2024). In Nigeria, rapid urbanization has been accompanied by changes in lifestyle, including sedentary behavior, poor dietary habits, increased tobacco use, and alcohol consumption, all of which contribute to the rising prevalence of NCDs (Ogunjimi et al., 2023).
Kebbi State, located in the northwestern part of Nigeria, has experienced significant urban growth in recent years. While agriculture remains the primary economic activity in the state, the urban centers are growing, leading to an increasing population density and changes in living conditions. As urbanization progresses, the population in Kebbi is also becoming more exposed to the risks associated with modern lifestyles, such as fast food consumption, reduced physical activity, and environmental pollutants. These factors are increasingly contributing to the rise of NCDs in the state, yet limited studies have focused on the specific effects of urbanization on NCD prevalence in Kebbi State (Babangida et al., 2024).
Non-communicable diseases have been identified as a growing public health concern in Nigeria, contributing significantly to the country’s burden of disease. Understanding the impact of urbanization on the prevalence of NCDs in Kebbi State is critical for developing targeted public health strategies to mitigate the risks associated with urban growth and improve health outcomes. This study aims to explore the relationship between urbanization and the prevalence of NCDs in Kebbi State, identifying key contributing factors and recommending intervention strategies.
Statement of the Problem
While urbanization in Kebbi State has brought economic development, there is increasing concern about its impact on public health, particularly with the rise of non-communicable diseases. NCDs, which were once primarily seen as diseases of the affluent, are now becoming more common in urban settings across Nigeria, including Kebbi State. However, there is limited research on how urbanization specifically affects the prevalence of NCDs in this region. Without a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between urbanization and NCDs, it will be difficult to develop effective policies and interventions aimed at reducing the burden of these diseases.
Objectives of the Study
1. To examine the impact of urbanization on the prevalence of non-communicable diseases in Kebbi State.
2. To identify lifestyle factors associated with NCDs in urbanized areas of Kebbi State.
3. To provide recommendations for public health interventions to mitigate the impact of urbanization on NCD prevalence in Kebbi State.
Research Questions
1. How has urbanization influenced the prevalence of non-communicable diseases in Kebbi State?
2. What lifestyle factors associated with urbanization contribute to the rise of non-communicable diseases in Kebbi State?
3. What public health interventions can be implemented to reduce the prevalence of non-communicable diseases in urbanized areas of Kebbi State?
Research Hypotheses
1. Urbanization is significantly associated with an increased prevalence of non-communicable diseases in Kebbi State.
2. Lifestyle factors such as poor diet, physical inactivity, and tobacco use are significantly associated with the prevalence of non-communicable diseases in urbanized areas of Kebbi State.
3. Public health interventions focusing on lifestyle modifications will significantly reduce the prevalence of non-communicable diseases in Kebbi State.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on urbanized areas within Kebbi State, including the state capital, Birnin Kebbi, and other rapidly growing towns. Data will be collected from hospitals, health centers, and community surveys to assess the prevalence of NCDs and associated lifestyle factors. Limitations may include difficulties in obtaining comprehensive health data from all urban areas, the challenge of measuring the full extent of urbanization, and the potential underreporting of NCD cases.
Definitions of Terms
• Urbanization: The process through which an increasing proportion of a population lives in urban areas, often associated with changes in lifestyle, infrastructure, and economic opportunities.
• Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): Diseases that are not transmitted from person to person, such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory diseases.
• Lifestyle Factors: Behaviors and habits that impact health, including diet, physical activity, smoking, and alcohol consumption.
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