Predictors of Obesity among Adolescents in Ekiti State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Childhood and adolescents obesity is a public health challenge. Studies on predictors of obesity among children in developing countries are very few. The aim of the index study is to determine the predictors of childhood obesity in Ekiti State, Nigeria. Methods:The index study was a cross-sectional study among secondary school adolescents in Ekiti State. After receiving Government approval and school permission to enter the schools, structured questionnaires were administered to students whose parents gave consent to participate in the study. Measurement of weight, height, waist circumference, blood pressure, and fasting blood glucose were done following standard procedures. Binary logistic regression was employed to determine the predictors of obesity Results: 346 (55.1%) males and 282 females (44.9%) participated in the study. More females than males were in the low/middle social class (25.2% vs. 14.2%, p <0.001), consumed more snacks (91.8% vs. 85.5%, p=0.014), and had general obesity (13.2% vs. 2.3%, P < 0.001). The mean BMI, SBP, DBP and FBG were significantly higher (P < 0.