Effectiveness of digital health campaigns in raising awareness and reducing the prevalence of obesity among students in tertiary institutions in Lagos State.docx

<i>Obesity is a pressing issue among students in tertiary institutions in Lagos State, Nigeria, with factors like poor diet and low physical activity contributing to its prevalence. Digital health campaigns are being used to educate students about obesity and promote healthier habits, but their effectiveness is uncertain. This study aims to evaluate the impact of these campaigns on students' awareness and behaviors regarding obesity. A cross-sectional descriptive research design was used to assess the relationship between exposure to digital health campaigns and changes in obesity-related behaviors among 150 students from selected tertiary institutions in Lagos State. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire titled “Digital Health Campaigns and Prevalence of Obesity Questionnaire (DHCPOQ).” The instrument was pretested on a small sample of students outside the study population to ensure validity and reliability. Cronbach’s alpha was used to determine internal consistency, with a threshold of 0.84 considered acceptable. Data collected were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, with all analyses conducted using SPSS software to ensure accuracy and precision. Findings revealed that students with greater exposure to these campaigns exhibited improved dietary habits, increased physical activity, and better awareness of obesity. However, the overall prevalence of obesity among students remained high, suggesting the need for more targeted and impactful digital health interventions. The study concludes that digital health campaigns hold promise for combating obesity, but overcoming implementation challenges is essential for sustained success. The study recommends that there is need for redesigning campaigns to be more interactive, integrating health education into the curriculum, and expanding outreach through various platforms to enhance awareness and participation among students. The researcher recommended that regular monitoring and evaluation of these campaigns are also advised to ensure effectiveness in reducing obesity prevalence.</i>