A study to assess the prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity among children aged 6–12 years in selected urban school

Reena AS; Kabita Jana

Volume : VIII, Issue : IV, April - 2019

A study to assess the prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity among children aged 6–12 years in selected urban school

Reena As, Kabita Jana

Abstract :

Objectives:–Objectives: To assess the prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity among children aged 6–12 years. Methods:–Cross sectional descriptive study was conducted .264 samples collected by stratified random sampling .The height and weight of the samples were measured and BMI was calculated. The children whose BMI is above 85th to 95th percentile is considered as overweight and >95th are considered as obese. A semi structured questionnaire on time spent on TV, Computer and smart phone, physical activities and dietary habits was administered to overweight and obese children to find out the factors contributing to it. Data collected was analysed and interpreted using descriptive statistics (Frequency and percentage) and inferential statistics using chi square and Fischers test. The prevalence of obesity and overweight were determined. Results:–264 samples were participated in the study. The age group of children was of 6–12years of age.56.8% were males and 43.2%were females. Maximum of 56.4% were in first order of birth.51.1% were vegetarians and 48.9% were non vegetarians. The prevalence of overweight was 20.08% and obesity was 34.85%. Association of selected BMI with selected socio demographic variables showed there was statistical significance between BMI status of the sample with gender, Occupation of father, Educational status of father, Educational status mother, Monthly income of the family, h/o obesity in parents with p<0.05. Conclusion– The results of the study have shown that there is a high prevalence of overweight and obesity among the school children .The main factors are associated are dietary habits and sedentary life style. Definitely disproportion in calory intake and burn out. Parents and the teachers need to be alert on developing healthy food habits and adequate physical activity to engulgate in children at home and at school.