Factors and Prevalence of Obesity among School Children in Urban Setting

Abstract

Introduction: Childhood obesity and overweight were initially recognized as diseases prevalent in developed countries with higher per capita incomes. Overweight is characterized by an excess of body weight in relation to height, while obesity refers to an excessive amount of body fat. Objectives: The aim of this paper was to determine the dietary and physical activity related factors and prevalence of obesity among the children of an urban setting in Bangladesh. Methods & Materials: This descriptive type of cross‑sectional study was conducted in 11 selected primary and secondary schools during January.2024-June, 2024 in Cumilla City Corporation area of Bangladesh. Purposive random sampling technique was used and a total of 220 children aged 6-16 years were enrolled in this study. Results: A total of 220 children were enrolled in this study. The average age of the children was 12.5±1.5 years. The majority of the children were boys 121(55%). Most of the children 216 (98.18%) were from nuclear families. The highest proportion 209 (95%) of the children were Muslim. According to socio-economic status distribution, 176 (80%) of the children belonged to upper class and followed 33 (15%) middle class, and 11 (5%) lower socio-economic status. Conclusion: This study investigated that 26.36% children had overweight and 51 (23.18%) children were observed obese. At the same time, not participating in household chores, not taking part in outdoor games and sports, eating fast food for school tiffin, eating rich food from restaurant at regular meal, not eating vegetables at regular meal, not eating fruits intake daily, and eating red meat daily were the most significant factors for the incidence of obesity among the children living in the urban area of Bangladesh.