Abstract:
This chapter outlines the epidemiology of overweight and obesity in sub-Saharan Africa, their determinants,
and the relationship with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and diabetes. The review shows that
overweight and obesity rates are increasing in all African regions with Southern African region being the
most affected. The rate of overweight and obesity is higher among women than among men and in urban
areas compared to rural areas. Socioeconomic status, age, parity, marital status, physical inactivity, body
weight perceptions, and increased energy are powerful predictors of overweight and obesity in
sub-Saharan Africa. The rapid urbanization accompanied by nutrition transition is changing the disease
landscape in sub-Saharan Africa with CVD and its related risk factors gaining prominent position. The
rising levels of overweight and obesity in sub-Saharan Africa are likely to exacerbate the burden of CVD
and diabetes if measures are not taken to curb the problem. Public health strategies focusing on healthy
diet, physical activity, weight reduction, and maintenance strategies are urgently needed in sub-Saharan
African countries.
