Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity among Primary School Children in Baghdad/Al-Karkh

Abstract

ABSTRACT
Background: The childhood obesity is a growing public health concern. Estimates of the
prevalence of obesity are necessary so that secular trends can be monitored and the need
for preventative measures assessed, childhood obesity is associated with serious health
problems and the risk of premature illness and death later in life.
Objective: To estimate the prevalence of overweight and obesity in primary school
children in Baghdad/al-Karkh city in Iraq.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among school children in the period
between February and June 2013, a total 2401 children (1256 boys, 1145 girls) were
selected randomly, weight and height was measured and BMI for age was calculated and
according to BMI-for-age chart for boys and girls. BMI percentile determined, interview
was done for every child about socioeconomic status. Nutrition status determined via
breakfast taking only.
Results: The prevalence rates among primary school children were: obese 16.2%,
overweight 16.7%, normal 62.6% and underweight 4.5%. No significant association
between age, sex, socioeconomic status and obesity including overweight, only significant
association was found between obesity and breakfast.
Conclusion: The prevalence of overweight and obesity about 32.9% in primary school
children, we need further study to examine the underlying social and cultural factors
associated with life style and nutritional habits.