Evaluation of childhood obesity, prevalence, and related factors in Istanbul

Abstract

AIM: Childhood obesity has become a global public health crisis. This study aims to determine the prevalence of obesity and related factors in primary school students in Istanbul. METHODS: This research was conducted between May 2015 and January 2018. A school was selected from each of the districts of Istanbul and research was conducted in 39 primary schools. The study was conducted with a total of 5620 students aged 8–12. The students’ descriptive characteristics, eating habits, and activity levels were questioned using the Student Information Form. Subsequently, anthropometric measurements (height–weight) were performed for body mass index assessment. RESULTS: The prevalence of childhood obesity was found to be 15.7%. This rate was 14.1% for female students and 17.3% for male students. Body mass index of students was related to durations of time spent on watching TV (r = .064, p < .05) and computer (r = .037, p < .05). In addition, the body mass index was differentiated by gender (p= .004); male students had a higher body mass index compared to female students, and body mass index was higher in those who skipped main meals (p = .001) and those who did not eat regular breakfast (p = .001). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of obesity in children was found to be quite high. It may easily be stated that obesity prevalence is rapidly increasing in Turkey; therefore, it should be done through regular screening programs, and preventive interventions should be planned.