CHAMPO, Daniel2026-08-312026https://research.unilus.ac.zm/handle/123456789/766Bachelor of Science in Public Health - Research ReportObesity is a growing public health concern among young adults in Zambia, particularly within university settings. This study investigated demographic and lifestyle factors associated with obesity among students at the University of Lusaka (UNILUS). A quantitative cross-sectional study involving 373 students was conducted using stratified random sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and anthropometric measurements. Analysis was performed in STATA using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression at a significance level of p < 0.05. The prevalence of obesity was 22.25%, and 55.23% of students were either overweight or obese. High fast-food consumption showed a significant association with obesity (χ² = 7.49, p = 0.006). Logistic regression revealed that students who consumed fast food ≥5 times per week had 2.46 times higher odds of obesity (95% CI: 1.21–5.00, p = 0.013). Sleeping 7–8 hours per night reduced the odds of obesity by 45% (OR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.30–0.98, p = 0.044). Demographic factors including gender, SES, and residence were not significant predictors in the adjusted model. Obesity among UNILUS students is substantially high at 22.25%, answering the first research question. The study further demonstrates that frequent fast-food consumption is the strongest behavioural determinant, with students consuming fast food ≥5 times per week having more than twice the odds of being obese. Adequate sleep (7–8 hours) was a significant protective factor. Overall, modifiable lifestyle behaviours rather than demographic characteristics are the primary contributors to obesity in this population. The university should prioritise interventions addressing fast-food intake, sleep hygiene, and campus nutritional environments. Future research should adopt longitudinal designs to better establish causal pathways.enThesis