Nutrition Behavior and Body Mass Index in Tanzania. Survey from a Cancer Prevention and Awareness Campaign in Northern Tanzania, 2019‪-‬ 2020‬‬‬‬

Abstract

Objective: In Tanzania, cancer is becoming a major public health concern. Risk factors such as poor dietary behavior, high body mass index, physical inactivity, alcohol and tobacco consumption increase the incidence. Limited cancer treatment facilities, prevention programs, and poor knowledge of cancer risk factors and symptoms in the population contribute to late-stage presentation and high mortality rates. The objective of this study is to examine the association of lifestyle factors including body mass index (BMI), physical activity, and dietary behaviors among participants who attended three cancer prevention events in rural and urban areas in Tanzania. Methods: A cross-sectional survey among PrevACamp- attendees in northern Tanzania between August 2019 and February 2020 were chosen. Participants were interviewed using a structured questionnaire on sociodemographic data, medical history, dietary habits, and physical activity, the body mass index was also determined.Results: 235 participants (114 urban/ 121 rural) were included in the survey. Urban residents had higher rates of obesity (p=0.0021) and less physical activity than participants from rural areas (4.63 days [SD=2.03] and 5.50 days [SD=2.00], respectively (p=0.006). Urban dwellers often skip their lunch and prefer to eat a snack. They use salt frequently, consume more processed meat, eat mainly starchy foods, drink more alcohol and sweetened sodas. Conclusion: Rural women more interested in cancer prevention than men. People in rural areas are more physically active and less overweight than those in urban areas. The cause is manifold, yet they hint at a lack of health care for women and a progressing urbanization according to Western patterns. There is an alarming high percentage of overweight among urban dwellers. Although people eat more healthy foods compared to rural populations, they tend to have a high body mass index. Physical inactivity and overweight will be a serious problem in Tanzania in the future, contributing to the risk of cancer.