Overweight and obesity in Jordanian adults before and after COVID-19: a multi-index comparison

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of overweight and obesity has increased globally after COVID-19, including in Jordan. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of overweight and obesity among Jordanian adults using multiple anthropometric indicators. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 2,633 adults aged 18-65 (1,027 males; 1,606 females). Trained nutritionists collected anthropometric and body composition measurements, including body weight, height, waist circumference (WC), body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) using a structured survey. Obesity was calculated using both global and Jordan-specific cut-offs. RESULTS: The prevalence of overweight and obesity varied by indicator, ranging from 41.7% (WHtR using Jordan-specific cut-offs) to 72.9% (body fat percentage). BMI-defined obesity affected 70-73% of both sexes. Central obesity was more prevalent in females (46.9-73.2%) compared to males (38.8-65.3%). Females had significantly higher odds of central obesity (OR = 2.23-2.48), whereas males showed higher odds when obesity was assessed using WHR, WHtR, and body-fat measures. Trends from 2009 to 2024 indicate persistently high prevalence rates, with slight declines in BMI- and WHtR-based obesity, while central obesity remained elevated, particularly among females. CONCLUSION: Obesity remains highly prevalent among Jordanian adults, with notable sex-specific differences, especially in central adiposity. Public health interventions should target high-risk groups and incorporate multiple anthropometric indicators along with sex- specific prevention and surveillance strategies.