The prevalence and modifiable lifestyle factors of central obesity among white-collar workers of different genders: A cross-sectional study

Abstract Background: Central obesity is strongly associated with obesity-related and metabolic diseases, which is a common health problem in sedentary adults, particularly in women, but the mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and factors associated with central obesity in white-collar workers Chinese population, and explore potential sex differences. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between 2017 and 2019 at two large general hospitals in northern and southern China. Totally 6,081 white-collar workers underwent a physical examination and completed an online health self-report questionnaire, which included demographic variables, lifestyle factors and blood lipid test. Multilevel logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the prevalence and factors of central obesity. Results: A total of 4,973 male and 1,108 female white-collar workers were included in this study, and the incidence of central obesity was 67.5% and 30.1%, respectively. In male white-collar workers, increasing age, chronic disease, higher levels of total cholesterol, salt intake and BEE, social engagement, eating spicy food and animal offal were risk factors for central obesity, while a higher HDL-C level, eating fish, and high vegetable intake were protective factors. In female white-collar workers, increasing age, higher total cholesterol level, higher BEE, and overeating were risk factors for central obesity, while a higher HDL-C level, and drinking milk were protective factors. Conclusions: Central obesity was a significant public health concern and the prevalence was high in Chinese adults. Healthy lifestyles and dietary measures to control the rates of central obesity should be undertaken to circumvent the growing disease burden in Chinese people..