Central obesity and its associated risk factors among public sector workers in Jigjiga Town, Somali Region, Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study.

Background: Central obesity, characterized by excess fat as measured by waist circumference, is a significant public health concern that impacts health outcomes in both developed and developing countries, including Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of central obesity and its associated factors among adult public sector workers in Jigjiga town, Somali Region, Eastern Ethiopia. Design and methods: An institutional cross-sectional study was conducted from April 15-30, 2024, among 628 public sector workers selected by a multistage sampling method in Jigjiga town, Somali region, Eastern Ethiopia. Data was collected using a pretested structured questionnaire. Descriptive analysis was done. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to assess associations. The strength of associations between central obesity and independent variables was determined by adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals. Results: Of the 628 public sector workers included in April 2024, the prevalence of central obesity was 48.6% (95% CI: 44.7%-52.6%), with 46.7% in males and 53.4% in females. Being female (AOR = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.04-2.21), physical inactivity (AOR = 2.02, 95% CI = 1.14-3.58), eating red meat 1-2 times per week (AOR = 1.55, 95% CI = 1.02-2.34), being non-diabetic patients (AOR = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.12-0.97), and non-stressful work (AOR = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.17-0.85) were significantly associated with central obesity. Conclusion: The prevalence of central obesity among public sector workers in this study was high. As a result, interventions should focus on promoting physical activity through workplace wellness programs, encouraging healthier dietary choices, providing resources for stress management, and monitoring health and work environments, along with behavioral change interventions, which would be crucial in reducing central obesity among public sector workers.