Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity among Primary School Children in Baghdad/Al-Karkh City

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Child hood obesity is one of the most serious public health challenges of the 21^st century. The problem is global and is steadily affecting many low and middle income countries, particularly  in urban  setting⁽¹⁾, childhood obesity is a major public health crisis nationally and internationally. The prevalence of childhood obesity has increased over few years.⁽²⁾

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence of overweight and obesity in primary school children in Baghdad/al-karkh city (Iraq) .

METHODS: a cross –sectional study was conducted among school children in the period between February and June  2013 , a total 2401 children (1256 boys, 1145 girls) were selected randomly, weight and height was measured and BMI for age was calculated  and according to BMI-for-age chart for boys and girls⁽³⁾ BMI percentile determined, interview was done for every child about socioeconomic status. Nutrition status determined via breakfast taking only.

RESULTS:The prevalence rates among primary school children were : obese 16.2% ,  overweight 16.7% , normal 62.6%  and underweight 4.5%.

No significant association between age, sex, socioeconomic status and obesity including overweight , only significant association was found between obesity and breakfast.

CONCLUSION:The prevalence of overweight and obesity about 32.9% in primary school children, we need further study to examine the underlying social and cultural factors associated with life style and nutritional habits.