Evaluation of co-existence of overweight and anemia among young adults in Coastal Karnataka, India using an interprofessional approach

Background: /Objectives: The dual burden of malnutrition is a public health phenomenon associated with a variety of socio-ecological determinants. Research examining the underlying causes of this phenomenon in the same individual is limited and warrants additional study. The purpose of this study was to identify the prevalence and determinants of coexistence of overweight and anemia. Methods: Cross-sectional observational study. A pre-validated questionnaire was used to collect information on socio-demographic, diet, and lifestyle determinants of the dual burden of overweight and anemia by an Interprofessional team. An Anthropometric assessment and Hemoglobin estimation was done. Pregnant and lactating mothers, immunocompromised adults, and patients with terminal illnesses were excluded. The participants were 250 young adults (20–45yrs). Data was analyzed with SPSS version 21, using descriptive and inferential statistics, t tests, binary logistic regression. Significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: Mean age of the participants was 31.1yrs (±7.83). Prevalence of coexistence of overweight and anemia was 23%. Central body obesity was inversely proportional to the hemoglobin levels (p < 0.001). Determinants of this coexistence were gender (female), age (young), low physical activity levels, higher intakes of total fat, cereals, roots, tubers, sugars, and an inadequate intake of pulses and other vegetables (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Proportional, balanced diets with high nutrient density, accompanied with optimum physical activity, a healthy lifestyle, adequate water consumption and regular health monitoring, will help reduce the risk of coexistence of overweight and anemia in the short term and diet-related Non Communicable Diseases in the long run. An interprofessional approach is important to create awareness regarding this paradox