The Role of Sociodemographic and Lifestyle Factors in Obesity Prevalence Among Hungarian Women Under 65
Abstract
Background: The global obesity epidemic affected approximately one in eight people worldwide by 2022, posing a particularly severe threat to working-age women. Hungary has also witnessed an alarming rise, with obesity prevalence approaching 59% of the total population. This public health crisis not only deteriorates individual quality of life but also places an enormous burden on healthcare systems, contributing significantly to various chronic diseases. Our study aimed to explore associations between overweight and obesity and sociodemographic factors, lifestyle, and related chronic health conditions among Hungarian women younger than 65.
Methodology: Data were obtained from the European Health Interview Survey. Chi-square tests were conducted for descriptive statistics, while binary multiple logistic regression was applied for analytical modeling. Multicollinearity was assessed using variance inflation factors, and model fit was evaluated through the Hosmer–Lemeshow test.
Results: Significant disparities were observed between obesity and various social, economic, and health-related factors. The proportion of women living in relationships was significantly higher among obese participants (64.1%). Educational attainment showed notable differences, with a higher proportion of obese women having only primary-level education (44.5%). Place of residence was also a significant factor; women living in rural areas showed higher obesity rates (30.3%) compared to urban residents. Furthermore, substantial regional differences emerged, with Northern Hungary displaying higher obesity rates (13.4%). Logistic regression revealed that women in relationships had a 1.72 times greater likelihood of obesity (odds ratio, OR: 1.72 [95% confidence interval, CI 1.52-1.93]), while hypertension markedly increased obesity risk (OR: 3.16 [95% CI 2.71-3.69]).
Conclusions: Findings emphasize the importance of considering sociodemographic factors and chronic illnesses in obesity management, highlighting that targeted early interventions alongside prevention are critical for optimizing lifestyle and well-being.
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