Gender differences and determinants of obesity in Egypt

Obesity is a major public health problem globally and obese children are at risk for remaining obese throughout their lifetime. Determinants of obesity are dictated by a complex-interaction between physical activity, nutrition, and sedentary activities. Gender comparisons for these determinants have been established, yet little research has examined the gender differences among obesity determinants in Egypt. Data were obtained from the Global School-Based Student Health Survey. Body Mass Index (BMI) was used as the outcome variable and predictors included frequency of fruit and vegetable intake, frequency of typical physical activity time, number of times walking and biking to school, and frequency of sedentary activity time. A weighted logistic regression was conducted (SAS 9.2). Bivariate results showed that sedentary behavior was significantly related to BMI in females, but not males (Males: F=1.85, p=.1813; Females: F=7.20 p=.0108). Age was significantly related to BMI for both genders (Males: F=9.22, p=.0041; Females: F=5.33, p=.0265). In the multivariable model, only age and gender were significantly related to the outcome. Concurrent with previous research, adolescent females had higher reported BMI and are more likely to be sedentary than males; which, in turn, could have an impact on obesity rates in Egypt. Even though the findings do not suggest fruit and vegetable intake to be a significant factor contributing to obesity, the increasing Westernization of the country and its nutrition transition should still be examined when studying obesity rates in Egypt.