Dietary and Nutritional Factors Influencing Obesity in Qatari Adults and the Modifying Effect of Physical Activity

Abstract Background: Qatar has one of highest obesity prevalence in the Arab world and globally. Unhealthy dietary habits and lack of physical activity are among the major factors that contribute to obesity epidemic. Objectives: To examine the influence of physical activity and dietary factors related to the obesity prevalence among adult Qatari nationals. Methods: Secondary data analysis of 2,496 Qatari adults (age 18- 64) from WHO Qatar national STEP wise survey 2012 was executed. Multivariate binary logistic regression analysis was carried out to assess the role of physical activity, dietary characteristics and related covariates in obesity causation. Results: The predominant form of physical activity was walking (76.4% of males versus 55.9% of females) followed by participating in intense sports in males and moderate physical activity in females. Consumption of sweet beverages was associated with obesity (OR = 1.06, 95% CI = 1.02–1.10, P < 0.01). No significant association was determined between obesity versus levels of consumption of fruit, vegetables, fast food, and food not prepared at home. Physical activity was significantly associated with a reduction in central obesity (OR = 0.72, CI = 0.57-0.90, P-value = 0.006) and with slight reduction in generalized obesity rates; however, this effect was not statistically significant (OR = 0.95, CI = 0.79-1.14, P-value = 0.58). Conclusion: The findings from this study might assist in the development of evidence-based strategies to reduce and prevent obesity as well as obesity-related morbidity and mortality. The continued and effective use of multidimensional approaches will be beneficial in preventing disease and reducing its burden in Qatar.Corresponding author: Hammad Akram, Epidemiologist, Public Health Department, Supreme Council of Health, Qata