LINKING URBAN STREET FOOD CONSUMPTION PATTERNS TO HYPERTENSION AND DIABETES PREVALENCE IN NIGERIAN CITIES

Abstract

Urbanization in Nigeria has contributed to a significant shift in dietary habits, with street food emerging as a primary source of daily meals for many city dwellers. While street foods are affordable and accessible, they are often characterized by high levels of salt, sugar, unhealthy fats, and inconsistent hygienic standards, which may elevate the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension and diabetes. This study investigated the relationship between street food consumption patterns and the prevalence of these NCDs in three Nigerian cities—Lagos, Abuja, and Enugu—using a cross-sectional survey of 600 adults aged 25–60. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and clinical assessments of blood pressure, blood glucose, and BMI. Results revealed that over 70% of respondents consumed street food at least three times weekly. Hypertension and diabetes prevalence were recorded at 32% and 14% respectively, with daily street food consumers showing significantly higher odds of both conditions (p < 0.05). Logistic regression identified daily consumption, age (45–60 years), obesity, and physical inactivity as key predictors. The study underscores the public health implications of frequent street food consumption and recommends integrated urban nutrition strategies to reduce the burden of diet-related NCDs in Nigerian cities.