Associated factors and comorbidities of obesity in adults from the 24 de Mayo parish, Ecuador

Obesity is a chronic and multifactorial disease with a high global prevalence and significant impact in Ecuador. It is associated with various comorbidities that affect quality of life. The objective was to identify the main factors associated with obesity and the most common comorbidities in adults from the parish of 24 de Mayo. A descriptive, observational, cross-sectional study with a mixed-methods approach was conducted. A non-probabilistic convenience sample consisted of 50 individuals over 18 years of age with a diagnosis of obesity. An in-person, individual questionnaire was applied. The results of the study revealed that obesity is present in 70% of those surveyed. Type I obesity was the most frequent. Family history (22.9%), sedentary lifestyle (20%), and unhealthy diets (17.1%) were the main associated factors. Hypertension (28.6%), type 2 diabetes mellitus (25.7%), and dyslipidemias (22.9%) were the most prevalent comorbidities. Obesity is a prevalent issue in the community, associated with genetic and modifiable behavioral factors. A strong link with chronic non-communicable diseases is confirmed. It is essential to implement health promotion and prevention strategies at the primary care level aimed at modifying lifestyles and controlling weight.