Publication:

Association between physical activity and obesity in adolescent population in urban areas of Maharashtra

Background Obesity is a major risk factor in many serious chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease, dyslipidemia, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, some forms of cancer, and osteoarthritis. The lack of physical activity is one of the main risk factor that leads to overweight and obesity. Objective of the study was to determine the association of obesity with physical activity.

Methods The study was carried out in 4 institutions (3 schools and 1 college) of semi-urban area of Maharashtra from Jan 2013 to Jan 2014. 585 students were selected by systematic sample i.e. every 3rd student was included in the study sample. A pretested standardized questionnaire was used. Body mass index was calculated by dividing the weight in kilogram by square of height in meter.

Results The subjects were asked regarding use of gym facility for exercise, it was found 26.21% subjects, who did not have exercise, had either overweight or obesity. It was also observed that 26.15% study subjects who daily walk less than a kilometer had either overweight or obesity. There was statistically significant difference between physical inactivity and prevalence of overweight as well as obesity.

Conclusions The subjects were asked regarding use of gym facility for exercise, it was found 26.21% subjects, who did not have exercise, had either overweight or obesity. It was also observed that 26.15% study subjects who daily walk less than a kilometre had either overweight or obesity. There was statistically significant difference between physical inactivity and prevalence of overweight as well as obesity.