Urban-rural differences in food consumption and central obesity among middle-aged adults: A cross-sectional population study in Indonesia

<b>Background:</b> The prevalence of central obesity is increasing in many regions, including low- and middle-income countries. It has been identified that a poor diet has become a significant risk factor for central obesity. However, the relationship between diet and the prevalence of central obesity among rural and urban communities remains unclear in low- and middle-income countries. <b>Aim:</b> This study aimed to analyze the association of food consumption with central obesity among middle-aged adults (45-59 years) in urban and rural areas in Indonesia. <b>Methods:</b> This was a cross-sectional study using secondary data from a national survey (Indonesia Basic Health Survey) in Indonesia in 2018. A total of 154,449 subjects were analyzed for the study. We used the International Diabetes Federation to define central obesity. Food consumption was measured using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Multivariable logistic regression was used to explore the association between food consumption and central obesity. <b>Results:</b> Frequent consumption of refined desserts, fried food, processed food, and inadequate consumption of fruit was significantly associated with central obesity in urban and rural areas (<i>p </i>< 0.05). In contrast, frequent consumption of seasoning and inadequate consumption of vegetables was significantly associated with central obesity only in rural areas (<i>p </i>< 0.05). <b>Conclusion:</b> Food consumption has a different association with central obesity risk in rural and urban areas in Indonesia.