Contribution of the intake of soft drinks and alcoholic beverages on overweight and obesity among adults in the Health District of Biyem-Assi: a cross-sectional study

Background The global rise in overweight and obesity represents a major public health concern. Consumption of soft drinks and alcoholic beverages has been investigated as potential factors, though evidence remains limited and sometimes contradictory. This study aimed to assess the role of soft drinks and alcoholic beverage consumption in the occurrence of overweight and obesity. Methods A cross-sectional, community-based survey was conducted in the Biyem-Assi Health District (Yaoundé, Cameroon) using a two-stage stratified cluster sampling method. Data were collected using standardized questionnaires. The body mass index classification established was used to define overweight and obesity. Logistic regression was performed to assess the relationships between beverage intake and weight status. Results Among 970 participants, the age distribution revealed a mean age of 35.49 years, with females (59.9%) being mostly represented. Frequent soft drink and alcohol intake consumption was predominantly reported by males (78.5%) and individuals with lower income levels ( p  < 0.001), with SSB and industrial beer being the most consumed soft drink and alcoholic beverage, respectively. Five hundred and ninety-six participants were either overweight or obese, yielding a prevalence of 61.4% [95% CI: 0.58–0.64], with a notably higher rate among women (70.9%) ( p  < 0.001) compared to men. Higher odds of overweight and obesity were significantly associated with females (aOR = 2.56; p  = 0.002), older age, i.e. , > 50 years (aOR = 9.13; p  < 0.001), and higher income. Soft drink consumption significantly increased the odds of overweight/obesity (aOR = 2.00; [95% CI: 1.09–3.66]; p  = 0.024), as did alcohol use (aOR = 2.34; [95% CI: 1.21–4.53]; p  = 0.012). Conclusion The consumption of SSBs and industrial beer was widespread, particularly among younger adults and males. After adjusting for sociodemographic variables, these consumption patterns were significantly associated with overweight or obesity. Factors such as sex, age, education level, and income were identified as key determinants of excess weight.