Prevalance of Childhood Obesity and its Contributing Factors among Children in Selected Schools of Guwahati, Assam

Abstract

Childhood obesity and overweight were initially considered a disease in developed countries with higher per capita income. Overweight is defined as excess body weight relative to height, whereas obesity refers to surplus body fat. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), when body mass index is more than 25, the situation is denoted as overweight, and a Body Mass Index of more than 30 is considered an obesity condition. The burden of overweight and obesity among children has increased, becoming a global public health concern. In developing countries with emerging economies, the increasing trend of overweight and obesity among children poses a significant challenge to the healthcare system. The occurrence of overweight and obesity is higher in developed countries than in developing countries. The prevalence of childhood obesity has increased in developed countries. Materials and method-A descriptive quantitative approach and cross sectional research design was adopted for the study. The study was conducted at Little Pearls English Medium School, Narengi and R.K Memorial School Geetanagar by an interview schedule and using biophysiological method. The investigator used simple random sampling technique to select 109 children studying in schools of Guwahati,Assam. Results- The study revealed that out of 109 children majority (40.4%) children were in the age group of 11-12 years. Majority of children (52%) were Male. Majority (92%) of the children were Hindu. Majority (52%) of the children belongs to joint family. Majority (38%) of children’s father were HSLC pass. Majority (34%) children’s mothers were HSSLC pass. Majority (40%) children’s fathers were businessman/self employed. Majority (66%) children’s mothers were home maker. Majority (95%) children were non-vegetarian. 15% children were overweight and 4% children were obese according to their BMI.94% of children take their breakfast regularly. 45% children take meals more than 3 times a day. 49% children prefer junk food over homemade food. 59% children eat snacks while watching TV. 45% children regularly take high fatty food. 74% children go to school by walking/ cycling. 52% children sleep in a day time regularly. 58% children sleep more than 8 hours every day. 31% children play outdoor games. 24% children are doing mild activities like running, dancing, gymnastic or house work. 35% children perform outdoor activities like skipping or jumping rope. 59% children perform meditation or yoga. 61% children have family history of obesity. The result showed that there was a significant association between the prevalence of childhood obesity and its contributing factors with demographic variables such as age, gender, religion, type of family, father’s educational status, mother’s educational status, father’s occupation, mother’s occupation and dietary habits. Conclusions-From the findings of the present study, it shows that increasing BMI, sedentary life style, dietary factors and less physical activity are the major contributing factors of prevalence of childhood obesity among children studying in schools. Therefore, it is concluded that maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a healthy dietary habit can reduce the increasing contributing factors of developing childhood obesity.

Introduction

Background:

• Initially a concern in developed countries, childhood obesity is now a global health issue, including in developing nations like India.

• Defined by BMI:

  • Overweight: BMI > 25

  • Obesity: BMI > 30

• Causes include energy imbalance, high-calorie intake, low physical activity, and socio-environmental factors.

• Childhood obesity is linked to future health risks such as metabolic disorders, mental health issues, and poor physical health.

Purpose of the Study:

To assess the prevalence and contributing factors of childhood obesity among children aged 9–14 in selected schools of Guwahati, and analyze its association with demographic variables.

Objectives:

1. Determine prevalence of obesity in school children.

2. Identify contributing factors (e.g., diet, lifestyle, family background).

3. Assess associations between obesity and demographic factors.

Methodology:

• Design: Descriptive, quantitative study.

• Sample: 109 students (aged 9–14) from two private schools selected via random sampling.

• Tools:

  • BMI measurement for obesity classification.

  • Structured interviews on diet and lifestyle.

  • Statistical analysis using Chi-square test.

Key Findings:

• Prevalence Rates:

  • Overweight: ~10.8%

  • Obese: ~6.2%

  • Higher in males than females.

• Demographic Insights (n = 109):

  • Age: Majority were 11–12 years (40.4%).

  • Gender: 52% male, 48% female.

  • Religion: 92% Hindu, 8% Muslim.

  • Family type: 52% joint families.

  • Father’s Education: 38% HSSLC pass, 28% graduates.

  • Mother’s Education: 34% HSSLC pass, 20% graduates.

  • Father’s Occupation: 40% business/self-employed.

  • Mother’s Occupation: 66% homemakers.

  • Diet: 95% non-vegetarian.

• Statistical Associations:

  • Obesity linked with private schooling, Muslim religion, and parental occupation in business.

Conclusion

Childhood obesity is an emerging concern even in urban regions like Guwahati. Key contributing factors include dietary habits, urban lifestyle, parental occupation, and socio-economic status. Early intervention through education and lifestyle modification is essential to mitigate long-term health risks.

Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Ms. Kup Yer, Ms. Khundongbam Pinky, Ms. Sapam Leipakleima Chanu. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.