A study of the prevalence of childhood obesity and overweight in private and government schools of Meerut city

ABSTRACT

Background: As per WHO childhood obesity is one of the most serious public health challenges of the 21st century, it is a global problem affecting many low and middle-income countries, particularly in urban settings. Childhood obesity affects adulthood and becomes the cause of non-communicable diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Overweight and their related diseases are preventable with early intervention and lifestyle modifications. Here we aimed to find out the prevalence of overweight and obesity of school going children of Meerut city.Methods: Four Hundred children from four schools of Meerut city were studied. Age, weight, height, socioeconomic status, food habits, and family history were recorded for further analysis.Results: Out of 400 children, 7% were overweight and 4% had obesity. We observed that obesity was more prevalent in private school going students. Leisure time and fast food are the major causes of obesity.Conclusions: A total of 11% of school going children were overweight and obese which is alarming and should be tackled in a more proactive and urgent manner. This study concludes that there is dire need of awareness against the junk foods at the same physical activities, games, health education and awareness programs should be included in the education system for students, parents, and teachers to understand and fight the obesity.