Background of the Study
Obesity has become a significant public health issue worldwide, and its prevalence in many African countries, including Nigeria, has been on the rise in recent years. Poor dietary habits, including excessive consumption of high-calorie, low-nutrient foods, have been identified as a leading cause of obesity (World Health Organization [WHO], 2023). In Kaduna State, rapid urbanization, changing lifestyles, and increased consumption of processed foods have contributed to a growing prevalence of obesity, especially among adolescents and adults (National Bureau of Statistics [NBS], 2024).
The state of nutrition in Kaduna is shaped by socioeconomic factors such as income, education, and urbanization. With the urban population increasing, dietary patterns have shifted toward the consumption of convenience foods, sugary drinks, and fast food, while traditional, nutrient-dense foods are being consumed less frequently (Eze & Yusuf, 2024). Furthermore, the rising economic burden of obesity-related health conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases, has created a strain on the healthcare system.
This study aims to assess the dietary habits contributing to obesity prevalence in Kaduna State and explore the relationship between poor diet choices and obesity-related health problems.
Statement of the Problem
Obesity is a growing public health challenge in Kaduna State, driven largely by poor dietary habits, which include excessive consumption of unhealthy foods such as sugary snacks, fast foods, and fried foods (Adebayo et al., 2024). The increased availability of processed foods and beverages has contributed to unhealthy eating patterns, particularly in urban areas. Obesity is associated with a range of chronic diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and hypertension, all of which place a significant burden on the state’s healthcare resources (Okafor et al., 2023).
Despite the growing evidence of the negative effects of poor dietary habits, there is limited research on how these habits contribute to obesity in Kaduna State. Additionally, there is a lack of targeted interventions to address the dietary behaviors that contribute to the obesity epidemic.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the dietary habits of residents in Kaduna State and their contribution to obesity prevalence.
2. To examine the relationship between poor dietary habits and obesity-related health conditions in Kaduna State.
3. To recommend public health strategies to address obesity through improved dietary habits.
Research Questions
1. What dietary habits are most commonly associated with obesity in Kaduna State?
2. How do poor dietary habits contribute to obesity-related health conditions in the population?
3. What interventions can be implemented to improve dietary habits and reduce obesity prevalence in Kaduna State?
Research Hypotheses
1. Poor dietary habits are significantly associated with obesity prevalence in Kaduna State.
2. There is a positive correlation between obesity and the incidence of chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension in Kaduna State.
3. Interventions aimed at promoting healthier dietary habits will significantly reduce obesity prevalence in the state.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on the relationship between dietary habits and obesity prevalence among residents in Kaduna State. It will explore various dietary factors, including food types, portion sizes, and eating patterns. Limitations may include difficulty in obtaining accurate self-reported dietary data and the potential for recall bias.
Definition of Terms
• Dietary Habits: The types and frequencies of foods consumed by individuals or groups, including their nutrient intake and eating patterns.
• Obesity: A medical condition characterized by excess body fat, typically measured by a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher.
• Obesity-related Health Conditions: Chronic health issues that arise as a result of obesity, such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Chapter One: Introduction
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