WHAT'S KNOWN ON THIS SUBJECT:The number of overweight and obese children has dramatically increased in recent decades. To combat this trend, information on possible gender-related differences in risk factors of overweight and obesity is critical.
WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS:This study examines associations of gender and physiologic and behavior measurements with potential cardiovascular risk. Lunch consumption and screen time were associated with weight; however, other associations with weight differ by gender. This information can be used to tailor future interventions.
abstractBACKGROUND: Previous studies have demonstrated gender-related differences in body composition, physical activity, and diet. This observational study assesses gender variance in independent predictors for obesity to determine targeted areas for intervention.
METHODS:Data from 1714 sixth-grade students enrolled in Project Healthy Schools were compared by using health behaviors and physiologic markers (lipids, random glucose, blood pressure, and resting and recovery heart rates). Students were stratified by gender and obesity (BMI $95th percentile by age and gender). Physiologic markers and behaviors were compared by using x 2 analysis. Univariate associations with P , .10 were included in a stepwise logistic regression model to determine independent predictors for obesity by gender.
The present study suggests school-based health programs combining educational lessons and additional environmental activities may improve diet and physical activity in middle school children to a greater degree than educational lessons alone.
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