Abstract

AN EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDY ON BODY MASS INDEX AND FOOD HABITS IN SCHOOL CHILDREN OF WARANGAL REGION

Bhavana Dhonvan*, Neha Boga, Dr. Praneeth reddy Adidela and Dr. B. Agaiah goud

ABSTRACT

Background: Obesity is the major serious public health problem and a big challenge. The changes in dietary habits and way of life of school children can lead to some nutritional problems and lead them to changes in their BMI. Objective: The primary objective of this study was to obtain data on the prevalance of obesity and underweight. Methodology: A prospective study was carried out for 6 months. The prevalance and factors associated with risk were evaluated. Results: A total number of 401 school children (7-17years) in different school’s data were collected by a questionnaire including dietary habits, physical activities, weight status, height, weight. In our study mostly students are from Private schools (84.78%) and least government school students (15.2%) were participated. Age and gender standardized percentages were estimated in 401 children mostly (48.62%) children in between age group of 11-14 years, mostly the boys are high in number (59.85%) and girls are (40.19%). Most often (39.9%) of school children having less physical activity. Conclusion: We analyzed that increasing of less physical activity, unbalanced food, skipping of breakfast, regular diet, consumption of fruits and vegetables, preferring fast foods, meat/fish, unhealthy food habits, height and weight should be taken into account. Finally, we have concluded that most of the school children (73.6%) have been under weight. Our study demonstrated an increase in prevalence of underweight and decrease in prevalence of obesity.

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