Parental Perception on Pediatric Obesity– Implications on Early Recognition of Obesogenic Factors and Management.

Dr.A. Jayavardhana; Dr.Malini .S

Volume : IV, Issue : III, March - 2014

Parental Perception on Pediatric Obesity– Implications on Early Recognition of Obesogenic Factors and Management.

Dr. A. Jayavardhana, Dr. Malini . S

Abstract :

OBJECTIVES: This study elicited parental perception of obesity in children as well their understanding of the risk factors and morbidity associated. METHODOLOGY: Parents of children aged between 2 – 15 years with body mass index (BMI) more than 85th percentile for the age and sex according to Center for Disease Control (CDC) growth charts were chosen. Informed written consent was obtained. Child’s height, weight and BMI were noted. Parents were administered a self reported Questionnaire, which included items in 3 areas namely Perception and concern about child’s weight, child eating behavior and issues on weight control. RESULTS: We analyzed the responses from parents of 60 children with BMI more than 85th percentile. Sex ratio male (53%): female (47%). Mean age –10 years, Median BMI is 28. 78% of the parents perceived their child as overweight and mothers perceived better than fathers. Of the 78%, 68% were obese and 10% were overweight. Parents attributed overeating (21%), reduced physical activity including television watching (30%) and familial (11%) for the cause of obesity. Parents were aware of complications to be hypertension (27%), diabetes (19%) and cardiac problems (21%). 45% of the parents were willing to adapt life style modification recommended for their children. Parents practiced some measures (diet – 20% & exercise –29%) to reduce weight whereas 19% believed only in medical treatment. Despite the awareness of obesity and its complications 21% of the parents were not taking any steps to reduce their ward’s weight. Inconsistency in diet and physical activity (39%) were the common problems parents encountered while controlling child’s weight.29% of the parents believed it is mother’s responsibility to reduce child’s weight and only 16% of the parents understood that it is a team effort involving parents, doctors and children. CONCLUSION: Though 3/4th of the parents were aware about their child’s overweight and the complications, their attitude and practices towards weight reduction were limited. As parents play a crucial role in preventing childhood obesity, education and motivation of the parents through family health education is essential.