Dietary habits and anthropometric indices of shift workers in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria

The aim of this study was to assess the dietary habits and anthropometric parameters of shift workers in Calabar Municipality, Cross River State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive study design was employed, with a study population consisting of shift workers in various organizations within the municipality. The sample size was determined to be 200 using Bluman’s formula, with multi-stage and random sampling techniques used for participant selection. Informed consent was obtained, and inclusion criteria ensured participants were current shift workers residing in Calabar Municipality. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed descriptively, with measures of central tendency and frequencies used. Anthropometric measurements were taken, including weight, height, waist circumference, hip circumference, and BMI. Results showed that the majority of respondents were female (63.0%) and aged between 18-29 years (39.0%). Most had tertiary education (73.5%) and earned between 150,000 and 299,000 Naira monthly (61.0%). Dietary habits revealed that 55.5% of respondents ate three meals daily, with 87.0% consuming snacks mostly at work. The average BMI was 24.46 kg/m² for males and 25.67 kg/m² for females, indicating a statistically significant difference between sexes. Waist circumference was 90.00 cm for males and 83.94 cm for females, while hip circumference was 105.14 cm for males and 97.44 cm for females. Both waist circumference and WHR were significantly different between males and females, with males having higher values. Shift workers in Calabar Municipality exhibit varied dietary habits, with significant differences in anthropometric parameters between males and females. It is recommended to implement interventions aimed at promoting healthier eating habits among shift workers. These interventions are crucial for mitigating potential health risks linked to irregular dietary patterns.