Prevalence of obesity and hypertension in the region of Khouribga (Morocco): Effects of socio-demographic and lifestyle factors

¹ Training and Research Unit on Nutrition & Food Sciences, Chouaib Doukkali University, School of Sciences, El Jadida, 24000, Morocco
² Laboratoire Bio-Géosciences et Ingénierie des Matériaux, École Normale Supérieure, Hassan II University of Casablanca, B. P50069, Ghandi, Casablanca, Morocco

^* Corresponding author: rbelahsen@yahoo.com

Abstract

Obesity is characterized by an excessive accumulation of body fat is in continuous increase associated with cardiovascular risks and health disadvantages. Objective: The aim was to the study the prevalence and the determining factors of the association of obesity and hypertension in the Moroccan population of Khouribga province hitherto unstudied. A cross-sectional survey was conducted oi 2019 among a random sample of 401 adults of both sexes, from urban and rural areas. Anthropometric parameters and blood pressure were measured. Body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), were calculated, Socio-demographic characteristics and physical activity level are determined. Anthropometric variables are significantly different in women and men. General obesity (BMI>30) was prevalent in 33.1% and abdominal obesity in more than 75%. Both general and abdominal obesity do not show any significant difference between urban and rural areas of residence. Hypertension was present in 35.5% in both sexes, significantly higher in rural men (57%) compared to urbans. Obesity increases with sedentarity. Obesity and hypertension increase with age and manifest themselves beyond the age of 35. Women with more than three children are obese. The present study data show that body weight management is related to origin, age, number of children as parameters associated with obesity. The prevalence of hypertension is associated with severe obesity. Abdominal obesity could be a predictive parameter of hypertension in the Moroccan population of the study province.