Burden Of Overweight and Obesity among Hypertensive Young Adults Attending a Tertiary Care Centre in Belagavi, Karnataka – A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Hypertension is a major public health concern in India and is closely linked with obesity and lifestyle-related factors. Emerging evidence indicates a rising prevalence of hypertension among young adults, largely driven by modifiable risk factors such as unhealthy diet and physical inactivity.

Objectives: To assess the burden of overweight and obesity among hypertensive young adults attending a tertiary care centre in Belagavi.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 153 hypertensive individuals aged 20–50 years attending the Medicine Outpatient Department. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements, including body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and waist–hip ratio, were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 29.0. The Chi-square test and logistic regression were applied, with a p-value < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: The mean age of participants was 35.92 ± 8.77 years. A high prevalence of obesity was observed, with 40.5% and 22.9% of participants classified under Obese I and Obese II categories, respectively. A non-vegetarian diet was predominant among participants. However, no statistically significant association was found between BMI and dietary pattern (p = 0.853) or meal-skipping behaviour (p = 0.311).

Conclusions: The findings indicate a high burden of overweight and obesity among hypertensive young adults. Early screening, along with targeted lifestyle and dietary interventions, is essential to reduce associated health risks and prevent long-term complications.