Factors associated with fruit and vegetable intake and physical activity among reproductive age women in Gofa and Basketo Zones, Southern Ethiopia: a community based cross-sectional study

Background The escalation in burdens of non-communicable diseases coupled with unmet needs of sexual and reproductive health services progressively impacting women, and posing significant threats to forthcoming generations. Low fruits and vegetables intake, and insufficient physical activity are known risk factors of NCDs. This research endeavors to assess the level and factors associated with fruit and/or vegetable intake and physical activity among women of reproductive age in Gofa and Basketo Zones, Southern Ethiopia. Methods A community based cross-sectional study was employed among reproductive age women from September 9/2022 to December 6/2022. A multistage cluster sampling was used to select participants from the designated zones. A total of 1404 study participants were included in the analysis. Statistical analysis was conducted using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software encompassing descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and multivariate logistic regression. Associations were deemed statistically significant if the p-value was < 0.05. Result Prevalence of adequate fruit and/or vegetable (FV) intake and physical activity were 48.4% and 78.3% respectively. Women who were from younger age groups, getting advice from health professionals, having primary school education, having > 4 family size, women from households with the lower wealth status, widowed/separated and Gofa zone residents were more likely to have adequate FV intake. Being married, single and Basketo zone residence were positively associated with physical activity. However, women from older age groups and having lesser educational status were less likely to be physically active. Women who were rural residents and having no family history of NCD were more likely to have both adequate FV intake and physical activity. Conclusion A substantial gap exists between the recommended level and actual FV consumption and physical activity. They are associated with different socio-economic, knowledge and health system factors. However, these preventive factors are more influenced by rural residence, having no family history of NCD, women’s occupation. Therefore, NCD prevention would be more effective if they account specific determinants in their design. Policy and socio-political factors influencing the rise of NCD risk factors should also be addressed.