FACTORS RELATED TO BODY MASS INDEX OF VILLAGE HEALTH VOLUNTEERS IN HEALTH REGION 7

Abstract

This cross-sectional analytical research aimed to study the body mass index (BMI) and the factors related to BMI among Village Health Volunteers (VHVs) in Health Region 7. Data were collected using structured questionnaires from 380 participants aged 18–59 years, selected through multistage sampling. Descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, minimum, and maximum values, were used to describe the data. Inferential statistics, including chi-square test, odds ratio (OR), and 95% confidence interval (CI), were employed for analysis. The results showed that the majority of participants were female (74.47%), aged 45–59 years (69.47%), and married (73.42%). Most had completed secondary education (55.00%). Regarding BMI classification, 29.74% had normal BMI, 38.68% were overweight, and 31.58% were classified as obese class 1. Sex was significantly related to BMI (p = .036); females were 1.679 times more likely to have above-standard BMI than males (OR = 1.679; 95% CI [0.998, 2.803]). Age was also significantly related to BMI (p = .010); individuals aged 45–59 years were 1.826 times more likely to have above-standard BMI compared to those aged 30–44 years (OR = 1.826; 95%CI [1.115, 2.978]). Dietary behavior showed a significant related to BMI (p = .039), with participants in the moderate-level group being 1.599 times more likely to have above-standard BMI than those in the good-level group (OR = 1.599; 95%CI [0.997, 2.559]). Exercise behavior had a significant related to BMI (p < .001), with participants in the poor and moderate-level groups being 6.927 times more likely to have above-standard BMI than those in the good-level group (OR = 6.927; 95%CI [4.109,11.683]). Alcohol consumption behavior was also significantly related to BMI (p = .010), with those in the moderate-level group being 2.731 times more likely to have above-standard BMI compared to those in the good-level group (OR = 2.731; 95%CI [1.217, 6.929]). Recommendations: VHVs should be encouraged to adopt health behaviors. Future research should investigate other factors related to BMI, such as knowledge levels, health literacy, and attitudes. Comparative studies in different age groups and qualitative research are also recommended.