Anthropometric Status and Perception of Body Image Among Sub-Saharan Migrants Residing in El Jadida, Morocco

Immigration exposes immigrants to changes that may affect their weight status and perceived body size. The objective of this study was to examine the link between the perception of body image among sub-Saharan migrants residing in Morocco and their anthropometric, socio-demographic and socio-economic status. Using a questionnaire, 282 sub-Saharans aged 18 to 55 residing in El Jadida were interviewed anthropometric parameters were measured, Body image perception was assessed by Figure Rating Scale, and body size dissatisfaction was calculated as Feel minus Ideal Discrepancy (FID). The results of this study show that the prevalence of overweight and obesity increases with age (P = 0.01) and in people with low monthly income. No person perceived themselves as obese. The total prevalence of body image dissatisfaction assessed by FID was 70.7%. The Sub-Saharan migrants show a high rate of body image dissatisfaction and a tendency to underestimate their body weight. These results draw attention to the consequences of weight gain appreciated in this population on health, and the need to put in place appropriate intervention and awareness strategies to prevent the comorbidities associated with overweight and obesity.