Impact of fast-food consumption on public health: A comparative study between urban and rural peoples

Abstract

This study compared the effects of fast-food consumption on the public health statuses between urban and rural areas, and to analyze its relationship with the dietary, lifestyle behavior, and prevalence of dietary health related diseases. Stratified random sampling was used to select 250 respondents each from urban and rural area with total number of respondents to be 500. Data were collected through questionnaires, healthcare professional’s interviews and clinical health indicators including body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, and blood glucose levels. Descriptive and inferential statistics was used to analyze the quantitative data obtained through the questionnaires and health assessments and thematic analysis was used for qualitative responses for themes and context. Results revealed that urban individuals were eating fast food far more often - typically 3 to 5 times a week - because they found it to be an easy and quick meal choice and because they simply liked its taste. Research found the fast-food burden has long challenged the health of urban communities but now the same applies in many rural areas. The findings highlight the pressing importance of regionally targeted public health policies, nutrition education, and community-level interventions to limit the escalating burden of fast-food-associated health problems.