Predictors of Overweight and Obese Among Postpartum Women in Seka Chekorsa District Jimma Zone Southwest Ethiopia, 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Postpartum women in Ethiopia are increasingly facing the challenge of over nutrition and its associated metabolic risks, including chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. This excessive weight gain is particularly concerning as it impacts the long-term health of both mothers and their children, potentially increasing the child's future risk of metabolic disorders. Understanding the specific factors contributing to over nutrition in this population is crucial for developing targeted interventions to promote healthy dietary practices and reduce metabolic complications. Objective: To assess the magnitude and identify the predictors of overweight and obesity in the postpartum period among women in Seka Chekorsa district, Jimma zone, Ethiopia, in 2024. Methods: This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among postpartum mothers in Seka Chekorsa district. Postpartum mothers who had resided in selected kebeles for at least six months were included. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 604 participants. The sample size was determined using a single population proportion formula based on a 4% marginal error, 95% confidence interval, and an estimated prevalence of 35.4% for overweight/obesity among postpartum women, adjusted for a 10% non-response rate. A structured, pre-tested, and translated questionnaire collected socio-demographic, behavioral, and anthropometric data (weight and height using standardized techniques). Data quality was ensured through rigorous training, supervision, and daily cross-checking. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression to identify factors associated with overweight and obesity. Results: The prevalence of overweight and obesity among postpartum women in Seka Chekorsa District was found to be 24.83% of the 604 postpartum women studied (75% rural, 25% urban), significant predictors of overweight and obesity included older maternal age (35+ years, AOR=1.90), high socioeconomic status (AOR=1.80), and higher parity (5+ pregnancies, AOR=2.20). Dietary factors were crucial, with primary consumption of processed foods (AOR=2.40) and frequent sugary drink intake (AOR=7.50) increasing the odds, while consuming 2-4 daily servings of fruits and vegetables (AOR=0.60) was protective. Engaging in moderate-intensity physical activity for 1-2 days (AOR=0.58) and 3-4 days (AOR=0.55) per week were associated with lower odds of overweight and obesity compared to no activity. Higher health literacy was also associated with lower odds. Notably, compared to those very dissatisfied with their body image, postpartum women reporting less dissatisfaction or more satisfaction had significantly lower odds of being overweight/obese. Urban residence showed a non-significant trend towards increased odds (p=0.063). Conclusion: This study in Seka Chekorsa District, Jimma Zone, identifies older maternal age, higher socioeconomic status, and increased parity as significant socio-demographic risk factors for overweight and obesity among postpartum women in this specific region of Southwest Ethiopia. Behavioral factors such as high consumption of processed foods and sugary drinks, and low fruit/vegetable intake increased the odds, while moderate physical activity and higher health literacy were protective. Furthermore, postpartum women who reported greater satisfaction or less dissatisfaction with their body image had lower odds of overweight/obesity.