Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity in School Children Aged 5-12 Years of Kottayam, India

Abstract

Introduction: Childhood obesity represents a major health problem with potentially devastating consequences and has increased worldwide rapidly in the past two decades. An early detection of overweight and obesity, and lifestyle modifications for its prevention is important. Aim: The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence and risk factors of overweight and obesity in school children aged 5-12 years of Kottayam, India. Methods: 1200 children of both sexes were studied from three private schools and two government schools belonging to the age group of 5-12 years using Cluster sampling technique. A structured questionnaire to elicit the socio-demographic variables, family history, dietetic habits and physical activities were given. Children are also subjected to General physical examination, blood pressure recording and Anthropometric examination. The body mass index in units of kg/m2 was determined and children were categorized according to age and gender specific criteria as underweight (<5th percentile), normal (5th -85th percentile), overweight (85th – 95th percentile) and obese (>95th percentile). The data were subjected to statistical analysis using appropriate statistical tests. Results and Conclusions: The proportion of subjects in CDC weight categories were 18% underweight, 72% normal, 7% overweight and 3% obese. Overweight and obesity is significantly related to age, sex, birth weight, physical inactivity and economic status. This study also shows that obesity is unevenly distributed in the community. Keywords: Anthropometric, body mass index; inactivity; obesity; overweight