Publication:

A study of prevalence of overweight and obesity in adolescents

Background Obesity is a disorder of energy metabolism involving excessive adipose tissue stores which is associated with medical or psychosocial morbidity. The prevalence, as well as the severity of obesity in adolescents is increasing at an alarming rate, making it one of the most serious health problems affecting this age group.

Methods This observational study was conducted in KIMSH, Tertiary hospital, Bangalore, Karnataka, to study the prevalence of overweight and obesity in adolescents. All adolescents attending outpatient in Department Of Pediatrics aged 12-18 years from 1st January 2014 to 30thJune2015 were included. Written consent was obtained from the adolescent and parent/guardian. Demographic data, History and examination were performed. An anthropometric measurement of weight, height was measured using same calibrated balance and stadiometer by standard technique. BMI calculated as BMI=weight (kg)/height (m). Centre for disease control and prevention percentile ranking was used. 85th to 95th percentile as obese. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis-Chi-square/ Fisher Exact test, softwares namely SAS 9.2, SPSS 20.0 were used.

Results 500 adolescents were enrolled comprising 305girls and 195boys.Overall incidence of overweight and obesity was 11.2% of which 21 (4.2%) were obese and 35 (7%) were overweight. Among 305 girls, 18 (5.9%) were obese and 25 (8.2%) were overweight, while in boys, 3 (1.5%) were obese and 10 (5.1%) were overweight. During adolescence girls were found to be more obese and overweight (P=0.021).

Conclusions Adolescent obesity has become rampant. Hence early screening and preventive strategies are necessary.