Prevalence and Risk Factors of Overweight and Obesity Among Secondary School Adolescents in Benin City, Edo State

The rising prevalence of overweight and obesity among Nigerian adolescents reflects a nutrition transition driven by urbanisation, sedentary lifestyles, and increased consumption of energy-dense foods. This study investigates the prevalence and associated risk factors of overweight and obesity among secondary school adolescents aged 10 to 19 years in Oredo and Egor local government areas of Benin City, Edo State, South South Nigeria. The convergence of fast food availability, screen time, and reduced physical activity in Benin City makes secondary school students a particularly vulnerable group. A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted with 380 adolescents selected through multi-stage sampling from eight secondary schools. Anthropometric measurements including weight, height, and waist circumference were taken using standardised protocols, and body mass index-for-age z-scores were calculated using WHO reference data. Dietary intake was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire, and physical activity was measured using a validated self-report tool. Socioeconomic status, screen time, and fast food consumption frequency were examined as potential risk factors. Findings are expected to show a significant prevalence of overweight and obesity, particularly among students from higher-income households, with dietary and behavioural factors as key determinants. Keywords: overweight, obesity, adolescents, Benin City, dietary risk factors.