Pimpapisa Pichayasakulkarn. Prevalence and risk factors for overweight among school children in urban areas, Pichit province . Master's Degree(Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology). Mahidol University. : Mahidol University, 2006.
Prevalence and risk factors for overweight among school children in urban areas, Pichit province
Abstract:
The growing prevalence of excess weight in children is generating
widespread concern. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence and
risk factors for overweight among grade 4-6 in urban areas of Pichit Province. 1,393
children and their parents/ caretakers were randomly selected. Weight and height were
measured, children and their parents/ caretakers filled out a questionnaire about
baseline characteristics. Prevalence of overweight and obesity was based on the sexspecific
weight-for-height index with Thai national standard.
A total of 1,374 children and their parents/ caretakers consented to
participate in this study, giving a response rate of 98.6%. The prevalence of
overweight and obesity was 12.8% and 13.7% respectively in boys, 7.4% and 3.6% in
girls. Multiple logistic regression analysis indicated three significant predictors of
overweight: being a boy, television viewing while eating food equal or more than three
days a week and overweight in father or mother (BMI ≥ 23 kg/m2, Asian reference).
Behavioral modifications to change the children’s food consumption behaviors,
increased physical activity and reduced sedentary behavior, especially television
viewing habits, are recommended through a school health program. Surveillance by
both teachers and parents is also needed