Obesity-Related Knowledge and Risk Factors Among Employed and Unemployed Women in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Southern India- Comparative Analysis

Abstract

Background. Obesity is a growing global health concern, influenced by multiple socio-demographic and lifestyle factors. Occupational status may play a significant role in its risk profile. Objectives. To compare the knowledge and risk factors associated with obesity among employed and unemployed women attending a tertiary care hospital in Mangaluru, India. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 110 women (55 employed and 55 unemployed), aged 19–64 years, selected through purposive sampling. A structured questionnaire assessed knowledge, and a checklist evaluated obesity risk factors. Data was analyzed using SPSS v27. Results. Knowledge scores did not significantly differ between groups (mean ± SD: 6.55 ± 2.78 vs. 6.23 ± 2.31; p = 0.514). However, employed women had significantly higher obesity risk factor scores (6.28 ± 2.86) than unemployed women (4.37 ± 2.29; p < 0.001). Occupational status was significantly associated with obesity risk levels (p = 0.008). Conclusion. Though knowledge of obesity was comparable between groups, employed women exhibited higher obesity-related risk factors, indicating the need for targeted interventions in working populations.