Socio-Demographic Factors Influencing Obesity Among Ever-Married Jordanian Women of Reproductive Age: Insights from the 2023 Jordan Demographic and Health Survey

Background Obesity prevalence has been rising globally, including in Jordan. This study aims to identify the factors influencing obesity rates among married Jordanian women aged 20–49 years, using data from the Jordan Demographic and Health Survey (JDHS). Methods The study analyzed data from the 2023 JDHS, encompassing a representative sample of 12,595 Jordanian women aged 15–49. Socioeconomic variables examined included age, education level, wealth index, urban or rural residence, and media consumption habits (television, radio, magazines/newspapers, internet usage) along with smoking status. Multivariate logistic regression was employed to determine the associations between these factors and obesity risk. Results Of the 4,048 married women included in the analysis, 1,697 (41.9%) had a normal BMI, while 2,351 (59.7%) were classified as obese. Multivariate analysis revealed that increasing age, listening to the radio less than once a week, daily internet use, and residing in Karak or Ajloun were significantly associated with higher odds of obesity. Conversely, reading newspapers or magazines at least once a week and daily cigarette smoking were linked to a reduced risk of obesity. No significant associations were observed between obesity and place of residence, wealth index, educational level, television viewing habits, or residence in other governorates. Conclusion With obesity rates continuing to rise, targeted health programs for Jordanian women of reproductive age are essential. National health initiatives should focus on promoting healthy lifestyle habits, addressing regional disparities, and encouraging balanced media consumption to mitigate obesity risk. Region-specific prevention and awareness campaigns are also vital for effective intervention.