Effect of Parental Socio-economic Status and Lifestyle Habits on Risk of Childhood Obesity in a Developing Nation: A Cross-Sectional Study

ABSTRACT

Background:The prevalence of childhood obesity (COB) in the developing world is currently high and is rising rapidly. Unlike developed countries, studies evaluating the association between parental socio-economic status (SES) and risk of COB in developing countriesare limited. Besides, the association varies across country and race/ethnicity and changes overtime. The aim of this study was to assess the association between parental SES and life style habits (LSHs) and risk of COB in Uyo, Southern Nigeria.Methods:Five hundred pupils and the corresponding number of parents were examined between April and September 2018 using socio-demographic/LSHs assessment questionnaire and body mass index (BMI) evaluation. Data analysis was performed and frequencies and percentages were computed. Associations between SES and LSHs of parents and risk of COW/COB were evaluated using multiple logistic regression analysis. Odds ratios and corresponding 95% confidence intervals were estimated.Results:The prevalence of COW and COB was3.4% and 16% respectively. The risk of COW/COB was higher among children whose parents had high level of education (OR=1.81, C.I=1.985-3.327,P=0.046), high level of income(OR=16.07, C.I=3.773-68.455,P=0.0001), employed(OR=1.138,C.I=0.157-12.057) and poor dietary habits. High level of physical activity of fathers and high income level of mothers decreased the risk of COW/COB Conclusion: High SES and poor LSHs of parents are associated with increased risk of COW/COB. Interventions necessary to reduce high prevalence of COW/COB in our cities and other developing countries should include among other risk factors parental SES and LSHs.