Assessment Of Obesity And It’s Contributing Factors Among Adolescents At Selected Schools : A Cross- Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Obesity is a complex condition that occurs when a person weighs more than what is considered healthy for their height. It affects both adults and children. Various factors

contribute to excessive weight gain, including eating habits, physical activity, and sleep patterns, as well as medical and social determinants.

Objectives : PRIMARY OBJECTIVE : To assess

obesity and it’s contributing factors among adolescents at selected schools. SECONDARY

OBJECTIVES: 1)To assess the obesity among adolescents at selected school.2)To find out the factors contributing to obesity among adolescents at selected schools.3)To find out the association between

factors contributing to obesity and selected demographic variables among adolescents at selected schools.

Methodology: This study was based on quantitative approach. “Non experimental Cross sectional study design “ was used with the objective to assess the obesity and factors

contributing to obesity among adolescent at selected schools.

Result: In the present study 32.86% of the adolescents were Optimal, 2.86% of them were overweight and 64.29% of them were Obese. Minimum BMI Score was 19.70 and maximum BMI Score was 31.9. Mean BMI score was

25.8±2.46.

Conclusion: After the detailed analysis, this study leads to the following conclusion : The study reveals that in Nutritional factor 37.14% of the adolescents consume excess calories, 57.14% of them frequently consume fast food or processed snacks, 55.71% included fruits in their diet daily, 71.43% of them include salad in their meal, 64.29% experienced food craving, 64.29% adherent to consistent meal schedule, 72.86% of them consume more than three meals per day, 75.71% of them consume in between snack snacks and 61.43% of adolescents consume balanced diet. In Medical Factors 4.29% have diagnosed with medical conditions, 2.86% of adolescents are taking prescribed medications, 14.29 % of adolescents are experiencing hormonal dysfunction, metabolic disorder and thyroid related issues. In Physical and Leisure activity 71.43% of them watch television while eating meals, 57.14% of them do not practice meditation or yoga during leisure time, 91.43% are actively engage in hobbies during free time , 88.57% of them participate in sports , 84.29% are interested in activities such as camping or outdoor excursions, 78.57% having screen time more than three hours , 85.71% of them having physical education (PE) period , 55.71% attend social gatherings more frequently, 87.14% achieving adequate sleep on a regular basis .In Psychological Factors 8.57% of them experience significant stress or anxiety , 65.71% are concerned about your body image , 21.43% are receiving criticism about their appearance or weight , 21.43% of them tend to eat more when they are experiencing sadness or emotional stress , 11.43% of them are prescribed antidepressant medications .In Family 42% having history of obesity in their immediate family , 21% of adolescent’s parents are enthusiastic about food and dinning , 32% of adolescent’s parents having health conditions like cardiovascular disease , diabetes mellitus or high blood pressure , 19% of adolescent’s family participate in activities like walking or cycling. There is association of obesity and it’s contributing factors with age, monthly family income and residence and there is no association of contributing factors with any other demographic variables.