Childhood Obesity among Children Studying in Classes IV and V (10–12 Years of Age) of Selected Schools in Urban and Rural Areas of Meghalaya

Abstract

Introduction: Childhood obesity, being one of the most serious health issues of the 21st century, has affected both developed and developing countries. India, with 14.4 million obese children, holds the world’s second highest position implying that one of three children is obese putting them at greater health risks in the future. In Meghalaya, the number of cases detected is very less as compared to other states (0.4%) – National Family Health Survey-3 (2012).

Aim: The aim of the study was as follows: (1) To determine the prevalence of childhood obesity and (2) To find an association between its prevalence and selected demographic variables.

Methodology: A cross-sectional interviewed-based study conducted among 313 schoolchildren (10–12 years) with 159 participants from rural and 154 from urban schools, randomly selected by multistage sampling. Height, weight measurements, and BMI were calculated to categorize them into obese and non-obese using the IAP (2016) BMI cutoff values (Chart 5–18 years).

Results: The overall prevalence of childhood obesity was 3.8%, prevailing more in urban schoolchildren (58.3%), with a higher incidence among 12 years old. Male children were mostly affected both in rural and urban schools. Age and history of obesity in the family were found to have statistically significant association at P ≤ 0.05.

Conclusion: Childhood obesity is an epidemic whose trends keep on changing with the evolution of new challenges. Therefore, early intervention is the key to prevention. Schools can play a key role in the prevention of childhood obesity and promotion of health.