Dietary factors and sociodemographic determinants of non-communicable diseases among adults: evidence from a cross-sectional study

Ali Mohieldin^*

• Public health Department, Department of Biology, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia, Abha, Saudi Arabia

Background: non-communicable diseases (NCDS) account for over 70% of global mortality. Integrated data on lifestyle and dietary risk factors remain limited in the middle east. Objective: to assess associations between sociodemographic, anthropometric, and dietary predictors and self-reported NCD status among adults in Saudi Arabia. Methods: a cross-sectional survey of 430 adults in Asir region province (July 2025) collected data on demographics, BMII, physical activity, and dietary intake across 10 food groups. NCDs were defined as physician-diagnosed cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus type 2, cancer, or chronic respiratory illness. Bivariate associations were evaluated using pearson’s χ² tests; multivariable logistic regression identified independent predictors. IBM SPSS v29 was used. Results: NCD prevalence was 49.3%. Bivariate analysis showed age (p<0.001), female gender (p=0.045), marital status (p=0.034), obesity (p<0.001), and occupation (p=0.004) were significant predictors. Low fruit (p=0.033), dairy (p=0.002), and grain intake (p=0.014), and high sugary food intake (p=0.009) were significantly associated with NCDs. Logistic regression indicated that female gender (or=2.87, 95% ci: 1.02–8.08), low dairy intake (or=0.21, 95% ci: 0.08–0.57), high sugar intake (or=0.10, 95% ci: 0.03–0.33), and smoking (or=0.35, 95% ci: 0.13–0.93) were significant independent predictors. Some findings were counterintuitive, warranting cautious interpretation. Conclusion: Nearly half of adults had at least one NCD. Modifiable dietary factors, notably fruit, dairy, grain, and sugar intake, emerged as key risk factors. Tailored dietary interventions are crucial.