Article

Prevalence of obesity among Nigeria Nurses: The Akwa Ibom State experience

L. O. Ogunjimi¹*, Maria M. Ikorok² and Yusuf, Oluwaseyi Olayinka²

¹Department of Vocational and Special Education, University of Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria.

²Department of Physical and Health Education, University of Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State, Nigeria.

³Gategold Nigeria Ltd, 7 Adelabu Street, Surulere Lagos State, Nigeria.

*Corresponding author. E-mail: lucasjimisegun@gmail.com.

Accepted 19 October, 2009

   Introduction

This study sought to investigate Prevalence of Obesity among Nigeria Nurses, with particular reference to Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria. A Survey Research Design was used for the study. 500 Nurses were randomly selected from 1082 Nurses in Akwa Ibom State Public Health Institutions. Questionnaire was the instrument for data collection. Data collected were analyzed using percentages frequency. 62.2% nurses showed prevalence of obesity. It was concluded that many Nurses in Akwa Ibom State showed the prevalence of Obesity. Eating Habits and Marital status contributed to this prevalence. It was recommended among others, that Nurses should practice the theoretical knowledge base and the need for more opportunities for physical activities at hospital sites was emphasized.

Key words: Prevalence, obesity, nurses, experience, Nigeria