Prevalence and clinical correlates of overweight and obesity among adults in Abha, Saudi Arabia: A retrospective cross-sectional study

The global rise in overweight and obesity has become a critical public health issue, recognized by the World Health Organization as a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. In Saudi Arabia, alarming rates of obesity necessitate a closer examination of the baseline characteristics and clinical features associated with these conditions. This study aims to analyze the prevalence of overweight and obesity in an adult population in Abha, Saudi Arabia, and identify the contributing clinical factors. A retrospective review of health records from a specialized healthcare facility in Abha was conducted for the year 2024. Participants included adults aged 18 and older, with data on anthropometric measurements and relevant laboratory results analyzed to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity. The body mass index (BMI) was calculated, and its association with clinical parameters was explored using logistic regression analysis. The study included 202 participants, revealing a mean age of 54.75 years and a mean BMI of 32.23 kg/m 2 , indicating a significant prevalence of obesity. Females represented a higher proportion of the obese population (77.6%), while obesity was prevalent across all age groups. Notably, higher rates of hypertension were observed in the obese cohort. Correlations between BMI and clinical parameters demonstrated significant associations between higher BMI, poorer glycemic control (haemoglobin A1c), and elevated fasting glucose levels. The analysis indicated significant predictors of obesity, including age, gender, glycemic control, and lipid profile abnormalities. The findings underscore the pressing need for targeted public health interventions aimed at addressing obesity and its associated health risks, particularly among females and older adults. This study contributes valuable insights into the clinical characteristics of individuals with obesity, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive approaches to managing obesity-related comorbidities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.