Prevalence of obesity among school children of age group 5-10 years

ABSTRACT

Childhood obesity is a precursor to obesity and other non-communicable diseases in adulthood. Obesity is associated with an increased risk of morbidity and mortality as well as reduced life expectancy. The objective of the study was to assess the prevalence of obesity among school children of age group 5-10 years. Methods: The study was conducted among 90 children of age group 5-10 years. Before the commencement of the study informed consents was signed by the parents. Anthropometric measurements were performed by well-trained health professionals. Height without shoes was measured using metal column height-measuring stands to the nearest 0.1 cm. Weight was measured using lever scales to the nearest 0.1 kg while the subjects wore their light clothes. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated from their height and weight (kg/m2 ). The BMI cutoff points recommended by the International Obesity Task Force were used to define overweight and obesity.8 Statistical analysis was done by using SPSS, version 22 (SPSS, Inc., Chicago, IL) and p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The sample size of 90 patients was selected for the study in which 50 were girls whereas 40 were boys. The children were divided according to different age groups. First age group include children between age of 5 to 7 years whereas in second age group children of age group 8 to 10 years were included. In age group 5- 7 years 24 were boys and 29 were girls. In age group 8-10 years 16 were boys and 21 were girls. The presence of obesity in age group 5-7 years was more in girls i.e., 62.06%. The obesity in age group 8-10 years was prevalent in girls i.e., 47.61%. Conclusion: Health education regarding prevention of obesity should be given to parents to assess healthier lifestyle motivation among their children.