Prevalence of Obesity in People of Urban Dwellers in Karachi. A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

There is a growing concern about the increasing rates of obesity and overweight individuals. Whereas, obesity is a complex, multi-factorial, and largely preventable disease. Severe-obesity significantly raises the risk of complications related to obesity, including coronary heart disease and end-stage renal disease. The study will be conducted from February 2024 to July 2024. A total of 385 individuals will selected to participate through convenient sampling technique, providing information through a validated questionnaire (Questionnaire for assessment of KAP of obese individuals about obesity). Traditional height and weight evaluation methods will be used to determine body mass index (BMI). Overweight and obesity will categorize using South Asian cut-off points: BMI ≥ 23 (Normal), 25.0 - 29.9 (Overweight), and ≤ 30 (Obese). Data analysis will be performed using SPSS version 29.0. All research population components, with one notable exception of gender, had p-values greater than 0.05 for the KAP of obesity appraisal. We have discovered that a significant portion of Pakistani adults struggle with being overweight. To prevent obesity in adults, the government and other health agencies should take the lead in initiating programs about dietary awareness and physical activity.