Prevalence Of Childhood And Adolescent Obesity And Its Associated Factors At The Legon Staff Village

ABSTRACT

Childhood and adolescent overweight and obesity is a major global concern in the public health sector. Overweight, as well as obesity occurs when the rate of metabolism of calories in the body is less than the rate of caloric intake. This condition is likely to continue into adulthood if not addressed. The prevalence and conditions that determine childhood and adolescent obesity have not been widely studied in children and adolescents between the age of 5 and 17 years in Ghana. Knowing of the prevalence and determinants of childhood and adolescent obesity can contribute greatly to the design of nutrition interventions which will prevent, promote and maintain good health both in children and adolescents.

The study objective was to determine the prevalence of childhood and adolescent obesity and the various associated risk factors among children and adolescents between the ages of 5-17 years at the Legon Staff Village, Accra, Ghana.

The study was cross-sectional and involved a sample of 93 children, as well as adolescents between the ages of 5 and 17 years living in the Legon Staff Village. Data collection was achieved through caregivers, children and adolescent interviews. Data was collected on sociodemographic and behavioural factors which included diet, physical activity and screen time. Anthropometric data was obtained by measuring weight and height of study participants and BMI was calculated using age and gender specific z score values recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). Data on socioeconomic status and demographics were collected through interviews using questionnaires. Associations between socio demographic and behavioural factors and childhood and adolescent obesity was determined using chi square statistics and logistic regressions, at 95% confidence interval.