Factors for Underweight vs. Overweight in Rural-Urban Women in Bangladesh

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Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Differences in Associated Factors of Underweight and Overweight According to Rural-Urban Residence Strata among Ever-Married Non-Pregnant Women of Reproductive Age in Bangladesh
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Original source:

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Author:

Mst Sharmin Akter Sumy, Md Yasin Ali Parh, Most Sifat Muntaha Soni, Nayeem Saifuddin, Jannatul Ferdousi Elma, Hamid Zarei, Md Murad Hossain


The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:

(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)

Full text available for: Differences in Associated Factors of Underweight and Overweight According to Rural-Urban Residence Strata among Ever-Married Non-Pregnant Women of Reproductive Age in Bangladesh

Year: 2024 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2024.31.3.18

Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The prevalence of malnutrition, both underweight and overweight, among ever-married, non-pregnant women of reproductive age in Bangladesh is the subject of this study. As the nation strives to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to eradicate all forms of malnutrition by 2030, understanding the dual burden of malnutrition—where undernutrition coexists with obesity—becomes critical. This research utilized data from the 2017 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS) to explore the differences in nutritional status based on urban and rural residency, alongside various socioeconomic factors.

Overweight and Its Correlates

One significant finding from the study is the high prevalence of overweight among women, especially in urban areas. Approximately 60.3% of urban women were classified as overweight, compared to 45.0% of their rural counterparts. Factors associated with overweight include increased age, economic status, and access to television, with urban women exhibiting a stronger correlation between these factors and their weight status. Notably, women from wealthier households were significantly more likely to be overweight than those from middle-income families across both urban and rural settings. Interestingly, the lack of access to television was inversely related to overweight status, suggesting that higher engagement in sedentary activities, such as watching television, may contribute to obesity.

Conclusion

This study highlights the pressing issue of malnutrition among Bangladeshi women of reproductive age, demonstrating the coexistence of overweight and underweight in both urban and rural populations. Addressing the determinants of these nutritional statuses, especially socio-economic factors, should be a primary focus of public health interventions in Bangladesh. The research underscores the need for targeted health education and interventions to alleviate the dual burden of malnutrition, aiming to improve the health outcomes of vulnerable populations. The data from the BDHS provides a foundation for future studies and public health initiatives to combat these concerning trends effectively.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What was the aim of the study on Bangladeshi women?

The study aimed to compare the prevalence of underweight and overweight among ever-married, non-pregnant women of reproductive age in Bangladesh, considering their urban or rural residency status.

What data sources were used in this research?

The study utilized data from the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS) conducted in 2017, employing a cross-sectional design and a two-stage stratified sampling method for analysis.

What were the key findings regarding underweight and overweight prevalence?

The study found that approximately 45% of rural women and 60% of urban women were overweight, while around 14% of rural women and 9% of urban women were underweight, indicating a dual burden of malnutrition.

Which factors were linked to overweight and underweight in women?

Factors such as age, economic status, husband's occupation, television access, and region were significantly associated with the likelihood of being overweight or underweight among the studied women.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Factors for Underweight vs. Overweight in Rural-Urban Women in Bangladesh”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Study (Studying):
The 'Study' refers to an academic or scientific investigation aimed at understanding the prevalence and determinants of body weight issues among ever-married, non-pregnant women in Bangladesh. It involves data collection, methodological design, analysis, and interpretation of data to address health issues like obesity and underweight conditions based on demographics and socioeconomic factors.

2) Table:
In the context of the study, 'Table' denotes the structured representation of data, typically used to display findings related to the prevalence and associations of body weight conditions among participants. Tables summarize complex data sets, making them easier to interpret and analyze trends in health statistics based on various sociodemographic factors.

3) Pregnant:
The term 'Pregnant' indicates a stage of a woman's life marked by carrying a fetus. In research literature, it often highlights concerns regarding maternal health, nutrition, and weight management during pregnancy, which is crucial to ensure healthy birth outcomes and the well-being of both mother and child.

4) Education:
Education encompasses the formal training and learning experiences that individuals acquire throughout their lives. In health studies, including the one at hand, education influences health choices, awareness of nutritional needs, and behaviors that impact weight management, affecting both underweight and overweight classifications among women.

5) Disease:
The word 'Disease' refers to any abnormal condition affecting the body, often resulting in health complications. In the context of the study on nutrition and weight, it ties into discussions on non-communicable diseases linked to obesity, highlighting the importance of addressing malnutrition and promoting healthier lifestyles.

6) Sylhet:
Sylhet is a specific geographic division within Bangladesh. The study indicates that women from this region exhibited distinct patterns of underweight and overweight compared to other divisions. Regional variations in socio-economic conditions, healthcare access, and cultural practices play critical roles in public health issues such as malnutrition.

7) Malnutrition:
Malnutrition defines a condition resulting from inadequate or excessive nutrient intake, leading to health issues like being underweight or overweight. The study focuses on the dual burden of malnutrition among Bangladeshi women, emphasizing the public health challenges and socioeconomic factors that contribute to these conditions.

8) Carpenter:
The 'Carpenter' refers to a specific occupational group in the study, particularly highlighting the husband’s profession. Employment and income levels influence the socio-economic status of families, thereby impacting nutritional choices, health behaviors, and ultimately the body weight status of women in various living conditions.

9) Pur:
'Poor' is a socioeconomic descriptor indicating individuals or families with limited financial resources. In the study, this category relates to increased underweight prevalence among women, showcasing the interplay between economic hardship, nutrition, and health outcomes, necessitating targeted public health interventions.

10) Activity:
'Activity' refers to physical movements or exercises that individuals engage in. The study highlights how levels of physical activity affect body weight management. Sedentary lifestyles linked to modernity and lack of physical exertion contribute to health complications related to overweight and obesity among women.

11) Mitra:
Mitra appears as a name related to the authorship or citation of research studies on health and nutrition in the context of Bangladesh. It suggests collaboration in scientific inquiry and reflects contributions to databases like the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS).

12) Measurement:
Measurement pertains to the systematic approach to quantifying body parameters, such as height and weight using standardized techniques. In health research, measurement allows for accurate classification of individuals as underweight, normal weight, or overweight, which is essential for assessing public health trends and nutritional status.

13) Developing:
'Developing' characterizes nations or regions that are transitioning economically and socially. In the study, it relates to contexts defined by evolving nutritional challenges, such as the dual burden of malnutrition typical of many South Asian countries where traditional undernutrition coexists with rising overweight issues.

14) Training:
'Training' involves structured educational practices aimed at improving skills and knowledge, particularly in health practices. In the context of public health, training healthcare staff enhances the effectiveness of interventions targeting nutrition issues, allowing for better management of malnutrition among vulnerable populations.

15) Farmer:
The term 'Farmer' denotes an occupational role significant in agricultural production. In the study, it represents a demographic variable concerning men’s income and nutrition-related implications for families. The profession is crucial for understanding food availability, dietary practices, and rural women's health outcomes.

16) Food:
Food refers to the substances consumed for nutritional support. The study evaluates how food choices and availability, especially in different socioeconomic strata, affect maternal health and nutrition outcomes, highlighting the direct link between diet quality and body weight status.

17) Diet:
Diet encompasses the overall foods and beverages consumed by an individual, influencing health significantly. The research emphasizes dietary patterns and their effectiveness in combating malnutrition, focusing on the intersection of dietary choices, socioeconomic status, and health for Bangladeshi women.

18) Rich (Rch):
'Rich' refers to individuals or families with ample financial resources. In the study's findings, rich households are associated with increased likelihood of overweight among women, drawing attention to socioeconomic disparities impacting health outcomes and nutrition in developing countries.

19) Chittagong:
Chittagong is a critical geographic region in Bangladesh. Reference to this division highlights its specific demographic trends regarding malnutrition, influencing the study's results. Divisional differences illuminate how socio-economic and cultural factors shape health outcomes among women in differing locales.

20) Rajshahi:
Rajshahi is another geographic division in Bangladesh mentioned in the study. It plays a role in contrasting dietary habits and health behaviors among women, contributing to the broader understanding of regional disparities in health challenges, particularly regarding malnutrition and body weight.

21) Khulna:
Khulna is a significant division within Bangladesh discussed in the study. Its mention provides context for understanding local health dynamics, resource availability, and socio-economic conditions that influence dietary practices and nutritional statuses of women in the area.

22) India:
'India' represents a neighboring country that shares cultural and economic similarities with Bangladesh. The comparison could be drawn on issues related to malnutrition and body weight, as both countries grapple with the dual burden of undernutrition and obesity within their respective populations.

23) Young women (Young woman):
The phrase 'Young women' specifies a demographic focus crucial to the study. It draws attention to the unique health challenges faced by this group, including vulnerability to malnutrition, making it essential to analyze their dietary habits and health indicators carefully.

24) Discussion:
'Discussion' indicates a segment of the academic paper where the findings are interpreted in light of existing literature, theories, and implications. It synthesizes the research results, addressing obstacles faced in public health and suggesting potential policy recommendations to address malnutrition.

25) Srivastava (Sri-vastava, Shrivastava, Shri-vastava):
Srivastava is likely a reference to a contributor or influencer in health research relevant to the study. The mention emphasizes collaboration in research, often resulting in a collective understanding of complex health issues, including obesity and malnutrition in specific regions.

26) Gupta:
The term 'Gupta' is likely another key author or researcher integral to the research efforts on health and nutrition issues. Identifying contributors acknowledges the collaborative nature of research aimed at understanding malnutrition and its determinants across different populations.

27) Kumar:
Kumar, as a contributor's name or a reference to known research, reinforces the collaborative aspect of health studies. The involvement of multiple authors illustrates diverse expertise, which contributes to the depth of analysis and understanding of malnutrition among Bangladeshi women.

28) Kabir:
Kabir potentially represents another research contributor focusing on public health issues, reinforcing the multicultural and multi-disciplined approach necessary for tackling complex health problems like malnutrition and obesity in Bangladesh, influencing future public health strategies.

29) Rules:
In a health research context, 'Rules' may refer to guidelines or standards established for assessing body mass, nutritional status, and public health interventions. Understanding these rules is vital for evaluating the effectiveness of health policies aimed at malnutrition.

30) Death:
The notion of 'Death' in health research often correlates with studies on mortality rates linked to malnutrition and diet-related diseases. Discourse around mortality provides insight into the importance of addressing nutritional issues to prevent health complications and enhance life expectancy.

31) Mental disorder:
The connection between 'Mental disorder' and physical health, particularly related to issues like obesity, highlights the importance of holistic health approaches. Recognizing how mental health affects dietary habits can inform better public health strategies to tackle the dual burden of malnutrition.

32) Calculation:
'Calculation' involves quantitative analysis in research, essential for determining statistics regarding obesity and underweight prevalence among study populations. Accurate calculations are foundational for robust findings that inform public health interventions aimed at malnutrition.

33) Knowledge:
'Knowledge' represents the learned information regarding health, nutrition, and lifestyle choices. The accumulation of knowledge among populations directly impacts health behaviors and choices, as well-educated individuals are often more equipped to make informed dietary decisions to improve their health.

34) Medicine:
The word 'Medicine' signifies the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing illness. In nutrition studies, medicine intersects with public health, aiming to address issues like malnutrition through pharmacological and lifestyle interventions for optimal health outcomes.

35) Dividing:
'Dividing' suggests the analytical act of separating or categorizing data into distinct groups for comparison, such as urban versus rural populations. This method is fundamental in health studies to identify differing health issues and needs specifically related to body weight.

36) Worry (Worried, Worrying):
'Worrying' emphasizes care or concern regarding the prevalence of health issues like obesity and underweight conditions in specific populations. Identifying worrying trends in public health can prompt necessary interventions to combat the dual burden of malnutrition.

37) Science (Scientific):
Science represents the systematic enterprise of building and organizing knowledge in the form of testable explanations and predictions about the universe. Within health research, scientific methods underpin the investigations conducted to address public health concerns like malnutrition.

38) Family:
The term 'Family' highlights the basic social unit comprising individuals related by blood, marriage, or adoption. Family dynamics influence health behaviors and decisions, particularly concerning nutrition, as access to resources and health education typically spreads through family interactions.

39) Nature:
'Nature' can refer to the inherent qualities or characteristics of individuals within the study, such as genetic predispositions affecting body weight. Understanding these natural variations helps in designing effective public health interventions to address malnutrition.

40) Reason:
The term 'Reason' reflects the rationale behind research conclusions. Establishing clear reasons for observed trends in malnutrition assists in developing targeted public health strategies that reflect the unique needs of different demographics within Bangladesh.

41) Seat (Seated):
The word 'Seated' often relates to sedentary behavior, which is a risk factor for obesity. In the study, understanding the prevalence of seated lifestyles among women can inform the development of interventions aimed at increasing physical activity to combat overweight.

42) Field:
'Field' typically refers to the practical environment where research is conducted. In health studies, field visits allow researchers to collect firsthand data, leading to a deeper understanding of community-specific health behaviors and nutrition-related issues.

43) Visit:
The term 'Visit' in research refers to the process of engaging with participants for data collection. Health surveys often utilize visits as a means to gather accurate information on dietary habits, physical measurements, and health status.

44) Blood:
'Blood' refers to the bodily fluid containing essential components like cells, nutrients, and waste. In health studies, blood tests often play a crucial role in assessing nutritional deficiencies and overall health, aiding in the identification of public health concerns.

45) Rand:
Rand is likely a reference to a contributor, data source, or organization involved in health research. This term emphasizes the collaborative nature of investigations into health issues, which often include input from various researchers and institutions.

46) Post:
Post pertains to after the occurrence of specific events, often used in a research context to discuss outcomes following interventions. In health literature, understanding post-intervention results is crucial for evaluating the efficacy of programs aimed at addressing public health issues.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Factors for Underweight vs. Overweight in Rural-Urban Women in Bangladesh’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

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Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.

Middle, Carpenter, Poor, Farmer, Division, Childbirth, Determinants, Other, Outcome.

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