Obesity Transition across Reproductive Stages of Women and Its Link with Non-Communicable Diseases in India: An Analysis Using South and Southeast Asia DHS Surveys

Dixit Priyanka, Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai
Snehaprabha Surpam, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)

Obesity is a growing public health issue in South and Southeast Asia countries, particularly among women at different reproductive stages. This study analyzes obesity transitions across adolescence, reproductive age, perimenopause, and postmenopause, and its association with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension and diabetes. Using data from South and Southeast Asia Demography Health Survey between 2000 to 2023, we categorized women into four reproductive stages and assessed obesity (BMI =25 kg/m²) and NCD prevalence using multivariable regression models. The results indicate a sharp rise in obesity prevalence, especially during the perimenopausal stage, accompanied by an increased risk of NCDs. Perimenopausal and postmenopausal women showed significantly higher probability of developing NCDs compared to younger women. Cultural factors, socioeconomic status, and urbanization were found to exacerbate the obesity-NCD link, particularly in India compared to Southeast Asia. Novel insights include the intergenerational effect of maternal obesity and significant regional variations within selected countries. These findings underscore the need for stage-specific public health interventions to manage obesity and prevent NCDs, particularly in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. Addressing these transitions is crucial for reducing NCD burden and improving women’s health outcomes in South and Southeast Asia.

Keywords: Health and Morbidity, Data and Methods, Children, Adolescents, and Youth, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights

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