Personal biological factors of children aged 10 to 12 with risk of obesity and overweight

Abstract

Introduction: Obesity is a worldwide public health problem that has considerably increased. In México, according to the 2006 National Nutrition Survey, prevalence for obesity in children was registered in up to 26%. The weight excess on children is an epidemiologic problem that implies serious consequences in health and in life quality, and it’s a risk factor for chronic diseases. It is associated with genetic and sociocultural factors, and with inactive lifestyles. Affronting this argument, knowing the prevalence of obesity among children it’s important in order to suggest effective interventions capable of diminish the problem.

Purpose: to determine prevalence for risk of obesity, obesity and overweight among 10-12 years old children.

Methodology: It was a descriptive, transversal type study. Population was formed by both sex students attending the fifth grade of primary school. We used a non-probabilistic by convenience sampling. Sample had 32 students. With previous consent from the parents, we applied a survey for data collecting, registering personal information, weight, height, BMI and abdominal perimeter.

Results: 18% of the sample was 10 years old, masculine sex was predominant with 19%. According with weight, we observed that 42% has corpulent body constitution. 55% has a normal height in relation to his age. Abdominal circumference was measured above the normal limits in 32% of the sample. 26% of the sample had obesity.

Conclusion: Prevalence studies not only offer information for diagnosis, they also give the opportunity for suggesting effective prophylactic interventions, like regular physical activity and a healthy diet, as well as the inclusion of family and school in the programs. That’s why information obtained by the present study will form the basis for the implementation of a physical activity project.