Obesity and undernutrition and cardiovascular risk factors in rural and urban Gambian communities

M A van der Sande, S M Ceesay, P J Milligan, Ousman A Nyan, W A Banya, Andrew M Prentice, Keith P W J McAdam, G E L Walraven

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: This study documented the prevalence of and cardiovascular risk factors associated with obesity and undernutrition in the Gambia.

METHODS: Adults (> or =15 years; N = 5373) from rural and urban areas completed a questionnaire; their height, weight, and waist and hip circumferences were measured, and their cardiovascular risk factors were assessed.

RESULTS: Prevalence of undernutrition (body mass index < 18 kg/m(2)) was 18.0%; all strata of society were affected. Prevalence of obesity (body mass index > or =30 kg/m(2)) was 4.0% but was higher (32.6%) among urban women 35 years or older. Cardiovascular risk factors were more prevalent among obese participants.

CONCLUSIONS: Undernutrition coexists with obesity, demonstrating a "double burden of disease." Differential interventions should focus on high-risk groups; prevention needs a multisectorial approach.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1641-4
Number of pages4
JournalAmerican journal of public health
Volume91
Issue number10
Publication statusPublished - 2001

Keywords

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Cardiovascular Diseases
  • Female
  • Gambia
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nutrition Disorders
  • Obesity
  • Prevalence
  • Risk Factors
  • Rural Health
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Urban Health
  • Comparative Study
  • Journal Article
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

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