Prevalence of Weight Condition among Females of Reproductive Age Visiting Gihundwe District Hospital Facilities/Rwanda

Purpose: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of overweight and its associated factors, including dietary habits and genetic predisposition, among women of reproductive age attending Gihundwe District Hospital in Rwanda. The increasing rates of overweight and obesity among women globally and locally, and their implications for non-communicable diseases, motivated this research. Methodology: A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining descriptive cross-sectional and triangulation designs. Using purposive, census, retrospective, and prospective sampling techniques, 198 participants were selected based on Fisher et al.’s (1998) formula. Data was collected through structured questionnaires, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 30, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. Findings: The results revealed that 51.5% (n=103) of the participants had a Body Mass Index (BMI) within the overweight range (25.0–29.9 kg/m²). Many respondents (75%; n=149) managed their weight through a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Key contributing factors to being overweight included unhealthy dietary habits, such as low intake of fruits and vegetables and frequent consumption of processed foods and sugary beverages, while genetic predisposition accounted for only 5% (n=15) of the cases. Overweight status was significantly associated with elevated blood pressure (p=0.023) and an increased risk of hypertension (Odds Ratio [OR]=1.1; p=0.035; 95% CI). Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy, and Practice: This study contributes to the limited literature on overweight prevalence among Rwandan women of reproductive age and highlights the need for community-based interventions that focus on nutrition education and lifestyle modifications to mitigate overweight and its associated health risks.