Socioeconomic factors affecting the prevalence of obesity among female patients attending primary health centers in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

A sample of 852 Saudi women who attended the primary health care centers in Jeddah seeking medical care were examined. Obesity was defined as a value for the body mass index (kg/m2) ≥ 25.0. The prevalence of obesity in the examined sample was high (64.3%). Obesity was significantly related to age, marital status, parity, level of education, level of work, women's income levels, who is the householder and the number of servants. There was no significant association between obesity and the following factors: being the only or youngest daughter, inhabitant's number, number of cars, time spent watching television, eating while watching television, number of times per week inviting or being invited to meals, householder's income, and his education or work. Multiple regression analysis indicated that five variables were significant predictors: age, marital status, number of servants, giving birth, and parity. Knowledge of the social factors associated with obesity will help to identify high risk groups. Those most vulnerable to the development of obesity, should then be the focus of a vigorous preventive program.