OVERWEIGHT

This study was designed to survey the prevalence of overweight and obesity in Oredo Local Government in Benin city, Edo state. A descriptive survey research design was used to obtain data. The instrument used to elicit information was the structured questionnaire. Two hundred questionnaires were administered and all were retrieved. The purposes of the study were:
- To determine if parental socio-economic status influences the prevalence of overweight and obesity.
- To determine if gender (sex) influences the prevalence ofoverweight and obesity. - To determine if physical activities influences the prevalence
of overweight and obesity. - To determine if eating behavior of adolescents influences the prevalence of overweight and obesity. Analysis and interpretation of data revealed that parental socio-economic status influences the prevalence of overweight and obesity. It revealed that the male genders were more
overweight or obese. It also revealed that physical inactivity and high consumption of energy dense food contributes significantly to the prevalence of overweight and obesity. The researcher therefore recommends that Nutrition education should be included as a relevant topic in the secondary school curriculum. There is a difference in term of gender with the male having higher prevalence, a multi-disciplinary approach including low fat diet, behavior modification and exercise is recommended.

Title: Obesity and Overweight among Students and Faculty in the University of Benin, BeninCity, Edo State, Nigeria. In response to the escalating global prevalence of obesity and overweight, this cross-sectionalstudy investigates the extent and determinants of these health concerns among the University ofBenin community. Our study encompassed 600 participants, including students and facultymembers. By employing structured questionnaires and anthropometric measurements, weevaluated the distribution of Body Mass Index (BMI) and examined various aspects of lifestyle, including dietary habits, physical activity, health perceptions, and knowledge sources. Thefindings indicate a substantial prevalence of obesity and overweight, totaling 63%. Lifestylefactors, such as physical inactivity and unhealthy dietary practices, play a significant role in theobserved prevalence. Additionally, our study reveals a concerning lack of awareness amongparticipants regarding the health implications associated with obesity. As a response to thesefindings, we propose a series of evidence-based recommendations. These encompass theimplementation of health promotion programs, an enhancement in access to healthy food options, the establishment of physical activity initiatives, the provision of mental health and stressmanagement support, and academic assistance. This multifaceted approach seeks to create ahealthier campus environment and, in turn, enhance the overall well-being of students andfaculty within the University of Benin. Keywords: Obesity, overweight, prevalence, students, faculty, cross-sectional study.