A recent study conducted by the Osaka Metropolitan University (OMU) has shed light on the increasing prevalence of obesity in many African countries. While hunger and malnutrition were once major challenges in these nations, the availability of food has improved significantly in recent years. However, obesity is still often viewed as a sign of prosperity and good health in many African communities. The study, which was published in the journal Nutrients, surveyed 423 students aged 14 to 19 in Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe, to determine the prevalence of obesity and the reasons behind it.
The results of the study showed that 15.8% of the participants were either obese or overweight, with a higher percentage of girls falling into this category than boys. Furthermore, many of the students surveyed (27.1%) had little knowledge about obesity, with the lack of awareness often correlating with poor nutrition and low levels of education among their parents. The study also found that the consumption of processed foods from Western countries, which were previously unavailable in Africa, was a significant factor in the poor dietary habits of the students.
The researchers hope that the study will raise awareness about the need to address the knowledge gap surrounding obesity in Zimbabwean youth. They suggest that education programs aimed at preventing obesity and promoting healthy eating habits should involve both parents and children to ensure that they are informed about the risks associated with poor nutrition. By addressing this issue, the researchers believe that it will be possible to reduce the prevalence of obesity in African communities and improve the overall health of the population.
