Physical activity, nutritional patterns and body weight status of members of the 9th parliament of Uganda

Abstract

Physical activity (PA) and nutritional patterns are major factors that determine body weight status which in turn affects one's health status. The purpose of the study was to assess the PA, nutritional patterns and body weight status of Members of the 9th Parliament of Uganda (MPs). A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was used to gather data on the MPs· PA, nutritional patterns and body weight status of the MPs. systematic random sampling technique was used to select respondents. Though the study sampled 245 MPs, only 150 (61 %) MPs responded. The data was collected using descriptive survey questionnaires and statistical analysis was done using SPSS (version 22.0). The findings indicated that MPs spent an average mean of 2.2 days on Vigorous PA and in each of these days; they spent an average mean of 13.5 minutes on Vigorous PA.MPs also spent an average mean of 2.6 days on moderate PA and on each of these days, they spent an average mean of 23 .0 minutes. MPs also spent an average mean of 2.9 hours sitting during weekends and an average mean of 3.4 hours sitting during weekdays. The findings further revealed that 76% MPs consumed processed foods and 67% MPs consumed fatty foods 3 times a day, 47% of MPs consumed 3 eggs per week and also 32% of the MPs consumed nut and seeds 3 days in a week. The food consumption score was at 30.95 and was classified as borderline. Their overall body weight status was summarized as follows; Underweight 10 (6.7%), Normal weight 48 (32%), Overweight 63 ( 42%), Obese class I 25 ( 16. 7%), Obese class JI 4 (2.6%). Most of the MPs both men and women were in overweight category. It was established that PA and nutritional patterns had a significant and positive relationship with the body weight status of the MPs. It is therefore recommended that the government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Health, strengthens sensitization of the population regarding proper nutrition and awareness on PA. KEYWORDS: Physical Activity, Nutritional Patterns, Body weight Status, Members of the 9th Parliament of Uganda