Work

Dietary factors and sociodemographic determinants of non-communicable diseases among adults: evidence from a cross-sectional study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background Non-communicable diseases (NCDS) account for over 70% of global mortality. Integrated data on lifestyle and dietary risk factors remain limited in the middle east. Objective To assess associations between sociodemographic, anthropometric, and dietary predictors and self-reported NCD status among adults in Saudi Arabia. Methods A cross-sectional survey of 430 adults in Asir region province (July 2025) collected data on demographics, BMII, physical activity, and dietary intake across 10 food groups. NCDs were defined as physician-diagnosed cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus type 2, cancer, or chronic respiratory illness. Bivariate associations were evaluated using pearson’s χ2 tests; multivariable logistic regression identified independent predictors. IBM SPSS v29 was used. Results NCD prevalence was 49.3%. Bivariate analysis showed age (p < 0.001), female gender (p = 0.045), marital status (p = 0.034), obesity (p < 0.001), and occupation (p = 0.004) were significant predictors. Low fruit (p = 0.033), dairy (p = 0.002), and grain intake (p = 0.014), and high sugary food intake (p = 0.009) were significantly associated with NCDs. Logistic regression indicated that female gender (OR = 2.87, 95% CI: 1.02–8.08), low dairy intake (OR = 0.21, 95% CI: 0.08–0.57), high sugar intake (OR = 0.10, 95% CI: 0.03–0.33), and smoking (OR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.13–0.93) were significant independent predictors. Some findings were counterintuitive, warranting cautious interpretation. Conclusion Nearly half of adults had at least one NCD. Modifiable dietary factors, notably fruit, dairy, grain, and sugar intake, emerged as key risk factors. Tailored dietary interventions are crucial.

Source: Frontiers in Public Health

DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1688260

Author: Ali Mohieldin

Institution: King Khalid University

Language: English

Topic: Nutritional Studies and Diet

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801