Magnitude and factors associated with overweight and obesity among adolescents in semi-rural area of Babati District, Tanzania

Background: Childhood and adolescent overweight and obesity have increased dramatically in recent years. We assessed the burden and factors associated with overweight and obesity among adolescents in a semi-rural district of Babati in Tanzania. Methods: A school-based descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among adolescents attending secondary schools. Anthropometric measurements were taken using standard procedures. A Food Frequency Questionnaire and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire were adapted to assess dietary and physical activity patterns, respectively. Results: A total of 619 students were included in the analysis. The mean age and body mass index of the respondents were 16.7±1.68 years and 19.9±3.16 kg/m², respectively. The overall prevalence of overweight and obesity was 9.2% with more girls being overweight and obese than boys (P