Prevalence and predictors of obesity and related comorbidities among older adults in Bisha Province: A cross-sectional study.

Obesity is a significant public health concern worldwide, particularly among older adults. Understanding the prevalence and predictors of obesity in specific regions is crucial for developing targeted interventions. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of obesity and its associated comorbidities among older adults in Bisha Province, Saudi Arabia, and to identify significant predictors of obesity in this population. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 437 older adults aged 60 years and above attending primary healthcare centers in Bisha Province. Data were collected using structured questionnaires covering sociodemographic characteristics, behavioral factors, health status, and anthropometric measurements. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and logistic regression models were used for data analysis. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 74.8%, with 42.8% classified as preobese, and 32% as obese. Significant predictors of obesity included female gender, rural residence, lack of exercise, and the presence of comorbidities such as hypertension, heart disease, and dyslipidemia. Males were less likely to be in higher obesity categories compared to females (B = -0.932, P < .001). Rural residents had a higher likelihood of obesity compared to urban dwellers (B = 0.601, P < .001). Interestingly, individuals without exercise were less likely to be obese (B = -1.916, P < .001), which warrants further investigation. The high prevalence of obesity among older adults in Bisha Province underscores the need for targeted public health interventions. Addressing the significant predictors identified in this study can help in designing effective strategies for obesity prevention and management in this population.