Prevalence and determinants of central obesity among adults 18 to 69 years in Kenya: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundCentral obesity affects about 4 out of every 10 people globally, and it is a notable public health concern linked with premature morbidity and mortality. In Kenya, regional studies have approximated the prevalence to range from 37% to 50%. However, these studies have been done in specific regions or population groups, such as among urban residents or women. Therefore, we aimed to assess the general and sex-specific prevalence and determinants of central obesity among adults in Kenya. MethodsAn analysis of the prevalence and determinants of central obesity was assessed using data from the 2015 Kenya STEPwise survey on non-communicable diseases and injuries. We included a final sample of 4 003 participants. Participants characteristics and prevalence of central obesity were described and summarized using frequencies and percentages. The bivariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to assess the determinants of central obesity. ResultsThe overall weighted prevalence of central obesity was 46.7% [95% confidence interval (CI): 43.2, 50.3], with women exhibiting a significantly higher prevalence compared to men (58.3% vs. 35.6%, p=0.001). Sex, age, household wealth index, and smoking were among the factors significantly associated with central obesity. Men had 66% lower odds of central obesity compared to women, while the risk increased with age, ranging from 1.6 to 4 times higher odds among those aged 30--39 and 50--69 years, respectively, compared to 18--29-year-olds. Other predictors of central obesity were wealthier households and non-smoking. ConclusionAbout half of the adult Kenyan population is centrally obese, with a higher prevalence among women than men. Kenyas policymakers should consider targeting high-risk groups in this population to reduce the burden of central obesity.