Associations of Sociodemographic Factors With Clusters of Obesity-Risk Behaviours Among Pregnant Women in Australia.

Background: Maternal obesity-risk behaviours during pregnancy have a direct impact on the weight trajectory of their children. Targeting these behaviours may help improve birth outcomes and child health. This study aimed to identify sociodemographic factors associated with unhealthy dietary behaviours and insufficient physical activity in pregnant women.

Materials and methods: We undertook a cross-sectional secondary analysis using data from the Communicating Healthy Beginnings Advice by Telephone (CHAT) trial conducted in NSW, Australia in 2017-2019. Multiple logistic regression models were built to determine associations.

Results: A total of 1155 pregnant mothers attended antenatal clinics from 28 to 34 weeks gestation. Younger age (< 30 years, adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.01, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.53-2.64) and paternal unemployment (AOR1.86, 95% CI1.44-2.39) were associated with a cluster of unhealthy dietary behaviours. Excessive intake of discretionary foods (processed meat, fast food, potato crisps) was associated with: younger age (AOR1.62, 95% CI 1.24-2.11), being Australian-born (AOR1.55, 95% CI 1.20-2.01), paternal unemployment (AOR1.57, 95% CI 1.01-2.43) and lower paternal education level (AOR1.77, 95% 1.37-2.28). Insufficient physical activity behaviours were associated with maternal employment (AOR1.55, 95% CI 1.21-1.98) and those with tertiary-level education (AOR1.39, 95% CI 1.08-1.79).

Conclusions: Mothers aged under 30 years and those born in Australia were more likely to have a cluster of obesity-risk behaviours. Maternal and paternal employment status, and education level were also associated with such clusters.