Evaluation of the Obesity-Related Factors in School-Age Children

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the obesity-related factors in school-age children (6-10 age group). Subjects and Methods: A total of 300 children between 6-10 years of age were included in the study. Children’s demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements (height, weight, waist circumferencet), eating habits and physical activity levels were examined. Results: The mean age of 8.3±1.19 years, with 160 boys (53.3%) and 140 girls (46.7%) participated in the study. According to BMI Z-score classification 3.6% of children were in severely underweight, 18.0% underweight, 54.0% normal, 15.3% overweight and 9.1% obese groups. There was no significant difference between the Body Mass Index Z-score classification and mother’s education level, obesity status in the family (mother or father), birth weight, duration of exclusively breastfeeding, having breakfast everyday, consumption classification of sugarsweetened beverages accessing to school and spent in front of the screen and computer (p> 0.05). A statistically significant difference was found between father’s education status, waist circumference and waist to height ratio (p< 0.05). Overweight and obesity rates in children were found to be increased with the increase in parental education level. Waist to height ratio is greater risk in overweight and obese children. Conclusion: Familial factors are also associated with childhood obesity. Management of eating habits for the prevention of overweight and obesity is needed. Waist circumference and waist/height ratio values are associated with Body Mass Index values.