Perceptions of Risk Factors for Overweight among Civil Servants in Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the perceived risk factors associated with overweight among civil servants in Imo State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted. The population comprised 11,200 civil servants in selected ministries, departments, and agencies. A sample of 363 respondents was selected using a multistage sampling procedure. Data were collected using the Perceived Risk Factors for Overweight Questionnaire (PRFOQ) and analysed using percentages, means, standard deviations, and independent samples t-test at 0.05 level of significance. The findings showed that behavioural factors were perceived as the
strongest contributors to overweight (grand mean = 3.30), with lack of regular physical exercise, unhealthy dietary habits, frequent fast-food consumption, and prolonged sitting rated highest. Occupational factors were also strongly perceived (grand mean = 3.21), with long hours of sitting and limited time for exercise rated highest. Socio-economic factors were perceived as less influential factor among others (grand mean = 2.88). Hypothesis testing revealed no significant difference in perceptions based on gender (behavioural: t = -1.38, p = 0.169; socio-economic: t = -1.21, p = 0.227; occupational: t = -1.78, p = 0.076) or years of experience (behavioural: t = -0.65, p = 0.516; socio-economic: t = -0.72, p = 0.472; occupational: t = -0.82, p = 0.414). The study concluded that civil servants perceived overweight as influenced mainly by modifiable behavioural and occupational factors, and that these perceptions did not differ significantly by gender or years of experience. However, Imo State Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Civil Service Commission, should implement universal workplace wellness programmes targeting physical inactivity, unhealthy
dietary habits, and sedentary work routines.