Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Gender Risks for Adolescent Obesity in Southwestern Saudi Arabia

Overview

Journal Saudi J Gastroenterol

Specialty Gastroenterology

Date 2011 Sep 14

PMID 21912058

Citations 30

Authors

Ahmed A Mahfouz

Abdullah S Shatoor

Mohamed Y Khan

Asim A Daffalla

Osama A Mostafa

Mervat A Hassanein

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Background/aim: The aim of the study was to investigate gender differences in obesity and related behavior among adolescent school boys and girls in southwestern Saudi Arabia.

Patients And Methods: A cross-sectional study on a stratified sample of 1,249 adolescent boys and 620 adolescent girls, was conducted in southwestern Saudi Arabia. They were interviewed and examined for weight and height using standardized techniques.

Results: The prevalence of obesity and overweight in the present study amounted to 23.2% among boys and 29.4% among girls. The following significant risk factors were identified; being a female [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) =1.372, 95% confidence interval (CI) =1.099-1.753] and lack of class physical exercise (aOR =1.452, 95% CI =1.149-2.117).

Conclusion: Obesity among adolescents is a public health problem in Southwestern Saudi Arabia. The problem is more prevalent among girls. Thus, there is a need for a national programme in the country to prevent and control obesity among adolescents.

Citing Articles

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