Objective: This study was conducted to examine the associations between socioeconomic status, urbanization, and cardio-metabolic risk factors in Tanzania.
Methods: Participants were 209 adults (45-66 years) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. A structured questionnaire was used to evaluate socioeconomic status and behavioral characteristics, including income, education, occupation, residence (urban, rural, mixed), dietary factors, and smoking. Blood samples were collected and analyzed to measure lipid profiles and fasting glucose levels. Cardiometabolic risk factors were defined using World Health Organization criteria.
Results: Urban residence and higher socioeconomic status were associated with decreased intake of traditional staple food (ugali), and increased consumption of meat products and beverages. Higher socioeconomic status was associated with a significant 3.5-kg/m2 higher BMI (p = 0.0001) and 8 cm higher waist circumference (p < 0.001), and a three-fold increase in the risk of obesity. Urban residence was associated with poorer lipid profile, including significantly higher total cholesterol, increased LDL cholesterol, but lower triglycerides, compared to rural residence. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was high (38%), and was associated with increased socioeconomic status.
Conclusion: Urban residence and higher socioeconomic status were important correlates of cardiometabolic risk factors, including obesity and poorer lipid profile. Primary prevention and health screening strategies are needed to target cardiometabolic risk factors in urban areas, to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease in Tanzania.