Developing an Evidence-Based Obesity Prevention Strategy for Urban Women in Abuja, FCT

Overweight and obesity among urban women in Nigeria is rising rapidly, with significant consequences for non-communicable disease burden, and evidence-based prevention strategies tailored to the cultural and lifestyle characteristics of Abuja women represent an important public health investment. This study developed an evidence-based obesity prevention strategy for urban women in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory. A strategy development methodology was employed, drawing on a formative research phase, systematic evidence review, and expert validation. Formative research involved focus group discussions with 36 women in three age groups (18 to 30, 31 to 45, and 46 to 60 years) in Abuja Municipal and Kuje Area Councils, assessing perceptions of healthy weight, dietary norms, barriers to physical activity, and preferred intervention formats. A systematic evidence review identified seven evidence-based obesity prevention intervention components effective in low- and middle-income country settings. The strategy developed encompasses five components: community-level nutrition literacy education delivered through women's groups, a subsidised physical activity programme at community centres, healthcare provider brief counselling protocol integration at PHCs, social media-based healthy eating campaigns targeting working-age women, and a built environment advocacy component targeting walkable community design. An implementation guide with required resources and performance metrics is provided. Expert review by ten public health nutrition and health promotion specialists confirmed the strategy's evidence basis and contextual fit. Recommendations include a 12-month pilot in two Abuja area councils.

Keywords: obesity prevention, urban women, Abuja, FCT, health promotion strategy