ABSTRACT

This study aimed to assess the prevalence of obesity and hypertension among the elderly in Umuahia South Local Government Area of Abia state. Samples of 277 adults (65-95 years and above) were randomly selected. Data were collected with the aid of a structured questionnaire, while blood pressure and anthropometric measurements were taken. Data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages and Chi-square test with SPSS Version 20.0 at significance level of (p<0.05). Result showed that some (46.6%) ofthe respondents were between the age of 65- 74 years, 66.8% were married, 31.4% had no formal education, 35.7% sourced their income from their business, close to half (49.1%) were on a special diet and 25.6% were on low salt. However, 45.1% adhered to their special diets. Few 18.1% and 21.7%) both took salty foods and add salt at table while eating. Only (18.4%) and 10.8% skipped breakfast. Some (19.1% and 17.7%) opted that their favorite foods was soft drink with buns/eggroll/buns and garri and soup when they were younger, which 85.6% still indulged in. A good number of them consumed meat while eating with majority consuming fatty meat. Their intake of fruits and vegetables, including milk and dairy products and legumes was low with greater percentage taking them 1-2 times a week. Baked products was also consumed by the respondents. A good number of them (60.3% and 56.3%) consumed carbonated drinks and alcoholic drinks, which most of them took 4 glasses and bottles, respectively. Majority (88.4%) of the respondents engaged themselves in exercise. About 19.9% ofthem smoke and 21.3% chewed tobacco. Prevalence of overweight and obesity was more among the females (37.6% vs 30.6%) compared to the males (33.3% vs 22.5%). Similarly, 98.1% compared to 18.3% males were at risk of cardiovascular diseases based on their WHR classification. However, prevalence of hypertension was more among the males (21.7% vs 15.8%) compared to the females (14.6% vs 8.9%). In conclusion, this study has revealed a high prevalence of overweight/obesity, high risk of cardiovascular disease and the coexistence of hypertension among the respondents in combination with poor dietary habit and poor life style habit. Hence nutrition education should be re-emphasized among the adult on their life style habit, dietary habits as well as their health and nutritional status.