Project Abstract

Abstract
This research project aimed to assess the nutritional status, dietary patterns, and prevalence of chronic diseases among adults in Bida Local Government Area, Niger State, Nigeria. The study employed a cross-sectional design, and a total of 500 adults aged 18 years and above were randomly selected to participate in the survey. Anthropometric measurements were taken to evaluate the nutritional status of the participants, including body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference. Dietary patterns were assessed using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire to determine the participants' daily nutrient intake. The findings revealed that a significant proportion of adults in Bida Local Government Area were overweight or obese based on their BMI measurements. The mean BMI was found to be above the normal range, indicating a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity in the study population. Furthermore, central obesity, as indicated by waist circumference, was also prevalent among the participants, especially in the older age groups. Regarding dietary patterns, the study identified a high consumption of energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods among the adults in the area. The intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains was found to be inadequate, while there was a high consumption of processed foods, sugary beverages, and fats. These dietary habits are known risk factors for the development of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. The prevalence of chronic diseases among the adults in Bida Local Government Area was also investigated in this study. The findings indicated a high burden of hypertension and diabetes, with a considerable percentage of participants reporting a diagnosis of these conditions. The prevalence of these chronic diseases was positively associated with age, BMI, and unhealthy dietary patterns. In conclusion, this study highlights the poor nutritional status, unhealthy dietary patterns, and high prevalence of chronic diseases among adults in Bida Local Government Area, Niger State, Nigeria. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to promote healthy eating habits, increase awareness about the risks of obesity and chronic diseases, and improve access to healthcare services for early detection and management of these conditions in the community.

Project Overview