Prevalence, Dietary Patterns and Associations with Body Weight among Women of Reproductive Age in Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study
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Background: Overweight and obesity are widely emerging among women of reproductive age in Pakistan. Changes in lifestyle and dietary habits, sedentary lifestyles, and reduced physical activity contribute to unhealthy weight gain, risk of metabolic disorders, and pregnancy-related complications. Objective: To determine the prevalence of BMI categories, characterize dietary and lifestyle patterns, and assess their associations with body weight among women aged 25 to 40 years in Pakistan. Methodology: This cross-sectional study included 200 women aged 25–40 from urban and semi-urban areas. Only non-pregnant, non-lactating women willing to participate were included, while those with chronic illnesses affecting weight were excluded. Participants provided informed consent and were briefed about the study. Dietary intake was assessed using a semi-quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire. Major dietary patterns were identified via factor analysis, primarily Principal Component Analysis with varimax rotation. Associations between diet patterns and BMI were analyzed using chi-square tests and logistic regression to determine the likelihood of being overweight or obese based on diet pattern scores. Results: Among participants, 30% were overweight, and 14% were obese; 48% had a normal body mass index, and 8% were underweight. Two dominant patterns emerged: a traditional home-cooked pattern (high intake of roti, rice, lentils, and vegetables) and a high-fat/snacking pattern (fried foods, sugary drinks, and packaged snacks). Women with high adherence to the high-fat/snacking pattern combined with low physical activity had significantly higher odds of being overweight or obese (p<0.01). Regular exercise, daily fruit intake, and consistent breakfast consumption were associated with healthier body mass index levels. Conclusion: Excess body weight is highly prevalent among Pakistani women aged 25 to 40 years. Diets high in fried foods and sugary snacks, along with low physical activity, are strongly associated with higher body mass index, whereas healthy eating and regular exercise are protective. These findings highlight the need for integrated interventions promoting balanced nutrition and active lifestyles to prevent obesity in this population.
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