بررسی شیوع چاقی در نوجوانان 14-12 ساله زنجانی عوامل مرتبط با آن

Background and purpose: Obesity in childhood can cause obesity and its associated health problems in adulthood. This study aimed at determining the prevalence of obesity and some related factors in high school male and female adolescents in Zanjan, Iran. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 1366 adolescents aged 12 to14 years who were randomly recruited from high schools in Zanjan, 2013. The weight, height and the body mass index (BMI) of all participants were measured. A researcher made questionnaire was used to record information including birth history, feeding pattern, family history of obesity, and sleeping and activity times. Results: The participants included 57.1% (n=780) females. Among the girls and boys 4.5% and 3.1% were found to be obese, respectively. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 12.2% and 3.9%, respectively. There was a significant relationship between obesity and birth weight, formula or breastmilk feeding, time of starting solid foods, family history of obesity, physical activity, time spent watching TV, taking snacks, and having rice during a week (P< 0.05). Conclusion: High prevalence of obesity and overweight among adolescents in Zanjan calls for efficient programs to prevent childhood obesity. Therefore, families should be provided with necessary information about healthy lifestyle and nutrition.