The Effect of Socio-Economic Status on Obesity Prevalence in Benue State
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Background of the Study
Obesity is a multifactorial health condition that has been rising globally, and its prevalence is increasingly influenced by socio-economic status (SES). In Benue State, rapid socio-economic changes, urban migration, and income disparities have reshaped dietary behaviors and lifestyle patterns. Higher SES can provide greater access to a wide variety of foods; however, it may also lead to increased consumption of energy-dense, processed foods and a sedentary lifestyle, contributing to obesity. Conversely, lower SES groups often face limited access to healthy food options and safe recreational spaces, further compounding their risk for obesity (Ibrahim, 2024; Adeyemi, 2023).
In Benue State, urbanization coupled with shifting economic conditions has created environments that foster both under- and over-nutrition. The rise of fast food outlets and supermarkets in urban centers contrasts with the limited availability of fresh produce in lower-income neighborhoods, creating an “obesogenic” environment. Moreover, differences in education levels, health literacy, and access to healthcare services can exacerbate the impact of SES on obesity prevalence. Studies suggest that individuals with higher educational attainment are more likely to adopt healthy behaviors, whereas those with lower SES may have limited knowledge about nutrition and exercise (Chukwu, 2024).
Understanding the role of socio-economic factors in obesity is crucial for designing targeted public health interventions. In Benue State, where economic disparities are pronounced, exploring the link between SES and obesity can help identify vulnerable populations and guide resource allocation. This study aims to analyze how various dimensions of SES—such as income, education, and occupation—influence obesity prevalence, providing insights into potential intervention strategies that address the root causes of the obesity epidemic in the state.
Statement of the Problem
In Benue State, the rising prevalence of obesity is a growing public health concern, and socio-economic status appears to be a significant determinant. Despite the availability of diverse food options in urban areas, disparities in income and education lead to differential access to healthy foods and opportunities for physical activity. Lower-income groups, in particular, often live in environments with limited access to affordable, nutritious food and safe spaces for exercise, while higher-income groups may overconsume high-calorie, processed foods due to lifestyle changes. This dual burden complicates efforts to reduce obesity and its associated health risks.
Moreover, public health interventions have not fully addressed the socio-economic disparities that contribute to obesity. The lack of tailored nutrition education and community-specific interventions means that certain populations continue to experience high obesity rates, thereby increasing the risk of related chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The gap in research focusing on the specific impact of SES on obesity in Benue State hampers the development of effective, targeted interventions. Without a clear understanding of these socio-economic influences, policy-makers may struggle to implement measures that can meaningfully reduce obesity prevalence across different segments of society.
Objectives of the Study
- To assess the relationship between socio-economic status and obesity prevalence in Benue State.
- To identify which SES indicators (income, education, occupation) most strongly predict obesity risk.
- To propose targeted interventions aimed at reducing obesity among vulnerable socio-economic groups.
Research Questions
- How does socio-economic status affect obesity prevalence in Benue State?
- Which dimensions of SES are most predictive of obesity risk?
- What interventions can mitigate the impact of socio-economic disparities on obesity?
Research Hypotheses
- Higher levels of socio-economic disparity are significantly associated with increased obesity prevalence.
- Lower educational attainment and income are significantly associated with higher obesity rates.
- Tailored public health interventions addressing SES-related factors will reduce obesity prevalence.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on urban and rural populations in Benue State. Data will be collected through household surveys, health records, and interviews. Limitations include potential self-report biases and the difficulty of isolating SES effects from other confounding variables.
Definitions of Terms
- Socio-Economic Status (SES): A composite measure based on income, education, and occupation.
- Obesity Prevalence: The proportion of individuals classified as obese based on BMI criteria.
- Obesogenic Environment: An environment that promotes weight gain and obesity.
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