Prevalence of obesity and its risk factors among Pre-University college adolescents of Belgaum city, karnataka

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Obesity, a key risk factor for the chronic and non-communicable disease, has become a serious public health concern in both developed and developing countries. Overweight/obesity is the underlying cause of death for 2.8 million people each year. It is the fifth leading cause of risk for death. The objectives of study are to know the prevalence of obesity and factors associated with Obesity. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the two Pre-University colleges with a sample of 330 adolescents of Belgaum city, Karnataka. Pre-designed and pre-tested questionnaire was used to elicit the required information. Height and weight was measured and Body Mass Index was calculated. Results: The prevalence of overweight and obesity was observed to be 9.1% and 5.1% respectively. Out of 330 study participants 53.9% were girls and rest were boys. Overweight/obesity was significantly associated with family history of DM, HTN and overweight/obesity, diet habit, habit of taking junk foods, doing one or the other activity while eating, not doing regular physical exercise and not participating in outdoor games. Conclusion: Adopting the healthy lifestyles, food habits and regular physical exercise can reduce the risk of becoming overweight and obese. There is need to educate the school children regarding nutrition and physical activity to promote their health.