Exploring socioeconomic factors in relation to overweight and obesity in Nepal: a demographic health survey analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Overweight and obesity is growing public health concerns in Nepal. This study explores the prevalence and determinants of overweight and obesity using nationally representative cross-sectional data from the 2016 and 2022 Nepal Demographic and Health Surveys (NDHS). Methodology: The study included men and women with age 15 years and older. After removing missing data, 14,639 participants from NDHS 2016 and 13,183 from 2022 were retained for analysis. Descriptive analysis, along with univariate and multivariable logistic regression was performed using SAS version 9.4. Concentration index and decomposition analysis was conducted to identify contributors to obesity disparities. Results: Overweight and obesity showed a 41% relative increase between the two NDHS periods. Key factors including age, marital status, household size, wealth index, and residence were significantly associated with the prevalence of overweight and obesity (P<0.001). The highest odds ratio was in the 31–45 age group (OR=3.51 in 2016; OR=3.57 in 2022), richest quintile (OR=7.31 and 5.41) Male (OR=0.59 and 0.69) and Urban resident (OR=1.87 and 1.67). Conclusion: The significant increase in overweight and obesity in Nepal highlights the urgent need for interventions addressing socioeconomic disparities, urbanization, and lifestyle factors. Strengthened multi-sectoral strategies are essential to curb this growing public health crisis.