ABSTRACT

Hypertension and obesity are significant public health concerns, often linked to lifestyle factors and dietary habits. This study investigated the relationship between food consumption patterns, lifestyle, and the prevalence of these conditions among bankers in Aba South Local Government Area, Abia State, Nigeria, a population potentially vulnerable due to the sedentary nature of their work and potential work-related stress. A cross-sectional descriptive study design was employed, involving 115 bankers selected from 15 branches of 6 different bank types using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, anthropometric measurements (height, weight, waist and hip circumference, BMI), biochemical measurements (glucose levels and lipid profiles), and blood pressure readings. Results (Table 4.1) showed a predominantly young workforce (63.5% aged 20-30 years), with diverse income levels and job roles often associated with sedentary behavior. Table 4.2 revealed varied eating habits, including meal skipping (especially breakfast) and irregular meal timings, influenced by work demands. Low fruit and vegetable intake and frequent snacking were also observed. Table 4.3 highlighted lifestyle factors: while smoking and snuff use were low, alcohol and carbonated drink consumption were prevalent. Physical activity levels were suboptimal, and reliance on motorized transport was high. Blood pressure assessments (Table 4.4) indicated a high prevalence of pre-hypertension (33.0%) and stage 1 hypertension (55.7%). Table 4.5a showed that 39.1% of respondents were overweight and 18.3% obese. Table 4.5b revealed gender differences in waist-hip ratio, with a majority of females exhibiting a high WHR, indicating increased risk for central obesity. In conclusion, the study found a high prevalence of hypertension and overweight/obesity among bankers in Aba South, linked to unhealthy dietary patterns and sedentary lifestyles. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions promoting healthy eating, regular physical activity, and stress management to mitigate cardiovascular risks in this population.