Socioeconomic Inequality and Body Mass Index in Nigeria: Evidence From Demographic Health Surveys

Abstract

 This study examined the distribution of Body Mass Index (BMI) across socioeconomic strata in Nigeria using nationally representative data from the 2008, 2013 and 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Surveys (NDHS). Using wealth indicator, education status and occupation type as ranking variables, this study employed the Concentration Index (CI) to measure inequality in BMI outcomes among adult women. Findings of the study revealed a consistent and rising concentration of BMI on the wealthier groups, with CI values for wealth increasing from 0.0652 in 2008 to 0.0840 in 2018. Similar patterns were observed with education, while occupational differences exhibit a concentration on the disadvantaged group, indicating relatively higher BMI among manual and unskilled workers. These results showed persistent and increasing socioeconomic disparities in nutritional health among the population of the study. The study, therefore, recommended, among others, that health and nutrition interventions be tailored to account for these socioeconomic gradients, particularly by enhancing access to preventive services and promoting awareness among the socioeconomic groups.