Indian Journal of Forensic and Community Medicine · Sep 19, 2026

Prevalence and determinants of obesity among metropolitan bus drivers in Chennai: A cross-sectional study

By R A, M AP, B.N S et al.

Background: Obesity is a growing public health concern, especially in urban India, where sedentary occupations and unhealthy lifestyles prevail. Bus drivers, who spend prolonged periods seated and often have irregular meal patterns, are particularly vulnerable to excess weight gain and obesity. Aim: This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence of obesity and to identify its associated risk factors among metropolitan bus drivers in Chennai.Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study among 398 Chennai Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) bus drivers selected using a stratified random sampling method. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire based on the WHO STEPwise Approach to NCD Risk Factor Surveillance (STEPS) proforma, which included information on sociodemographic characteristics, occupational history, dietary habits, lifestyle factors, and medical history. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify independent risk factors of obesity.Results: Among the 398 study participants the prevalence of obesity was 20.1%. In multivariable analysis, age >40 years (AOR = 1.76; 95% CI: 1.2–4.7), driving tenure >10 years (AOR = 2.48; 95% CI: 1.4–4.8)., frequent consumption of outside or restaurant food (≥5 times per week) (AOR = 2.54; 95% CI: 1.1–4.8) and alcohol consumption (AOR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.9 – 2.7) were found to be significant independent predictors of obesity.Conclusion: Obesity is highly prevalent among Chennai’s bus drivers, with older age, long-term service, regular consumption of outside meals, and alcohol consumption identified as key risk factors. These findings highlight the need for routine health screening among this population.

doi.org/10.18231/j.ijfcm.15454.1786532809Open accessPopulations