THE PROBLEM OF OVERWEIGHT AND OBESITY AMONG GEORGIAN SAILORS

Elida Khvedelidze

E-mail: e.khvedelidze@bntu.edu.ge

Associate Professor Batumi Navigation Teaching University

Batumi, Georgia

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1140-6888

Ekaterine Gvarishvili

E-mail: e.gvarishvili@bntu.edu.ge

Associate Professor Batumi Navigation Teaching University

Batumi, Georgia

https://orcid.org/0009-0008-6407-3168

Abstract: Overweight and obesity are one of the major health problems worldwide. Today, it is a pressing problem in the world's navy as well. A retrospective analysis was conducted to determine the prevalence of overweight among Georgian sailors.

450 sailors aged 20-60 who underwent medical professional examinations from 2021 to 2023 at the Batumi Seafarers' Medical Center were examined. Body mass index was calculated and compared across different age groups.

The normal weight of the examined seafarers was recorded in 9.5% of cases, overweight in 84.4% and obesity in 6%. The overall prevalence of overweight and obesity was 90.5%. The overall average body mass index (BMI) was 26.9±0.5 kg/m². There was an age-dependent increase in BMI.

The study reveals a widespread prevalence of obesity among Georgian seafarers. It is necessary to continue the research and implement measures to combat obesity and prevent it.

 Keywords: Obesity, body mass, economic impact

 JEL classification: J3, J60