Physical activity, sedentary behaviours and eating habits among school children in kerala
Abstract
Background: World Health Organization refers obesity as a global epidemic including children and adults. Low levels of physical activity, TV watching, and unhealthy food habits are risk factors for overweight and obesity in children.
Objective: To study the association between eating habits and physical activities and the risk of obesity in school children in Thrissur District, Kerala.
Materials and Methods: 1610 school children of the age group 5-10 years from 5 schools of rural and urban regions were selected by purposive sampling method. Pre-designed and pre-tested questionnaire was used to elicit the dietary history and physical activity. Height and weight were measured and BMI was calculated. Overweight and obesity were determined. Students who had BMI for age between 85 Th and 95 Th percentile of reference population were considered as overweight and BMI for age >95 Th percentile of reference population were considered as obese.
Results: The prevalence of obesity is found to be 3.3% and that of overweight is 4.8% in the study group. The prevalence of obesity is 4.47% and 1.98% in urban and rural school children respectively. Frequency of intake of fried foods, chocolates, Play hours <1hr and transport to school by vehicle has a significant influence on BMI.
Conclusion: The prevalence of obesity and overweight (BMI>85th Percentile) is significantly higher in urban school children compared to rural school children .Physical inactivity and increased intake of high calorie foods are the main causes for high prevalence.
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