Predictors of Metabolic Disorders Among Adolescents Aged 13-17 Years in Lang’ata Sub-County, Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract

Background: There has been a documented surge in the prevalence of metabolic disorder components, notably obesity, in Kenya. This has resulted in a rise in metabolic disorders in the country, especially in urban areas, thus constituting a severe epidemiological health problem. Broad Objective: The primary objective of the study was to determine the predictors of metabolic disorders among adolescents aged 13-17 years in Lang’ata Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya. Methodology: The research employed a cross-sectional survey design. 216 adolescents aged 13–17 years old enrolled in 5-day schools, randomly selected. A questionnaire was used to collect data. The data was processed and analyzed using SPSS software Version 28. Socio-demographic variables were analyzed using univariate descriptive statistics. Categorical variables were analyzed using inferential statistics and logistic regression. Findings: The prevalence of metabolic disorders was 13%. A multivariate regression analysis was done, and the following were determined: Students who went to public schools AOR 0.6 (95% CI)1.83-2.439; participated in sporting activities in school AOR 0.6 (95% CI) 2.869-4.44; P<0.001and those who took part in home-based activities AOR 0.2(95% CI) 1.172-1.437; P<0.001 are protective risk factors as AOR <1. Females AOR 3.5(95%CI) 1.061-1.093; P<0.001, respondents who have ever been diagnosed with a lifestyle disease AOR 4.8 (95% CI) 0.221-0.570; P<0.01, family history of lifestyle disorders AOR 2.1 (95%CI) 1.504-1.883; P<0.001 are risk factors of metabolic disorders among adolescents aged 13-17 years as AOR >1. Conclusions and Recommendations: The study has shown that females with metabolic disorders (obesity and pre-hypertension) were more than males. Also, factors such as type of school, if ever been diagnosed with lifestyle diseases, family history of lifestyle disorders, participating in sporting activities, and taking part in home-based activities were the most significant determinants of metabolic disorders in adolescents aged 13-17 years. Creating awareness and addressing factors associated with metabolic disorders is crucial among this age group.