Overweight and Obesity in a 10-Year-Old in Danang City, Vietnam

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of childhood overweight and obesity among 10-year-old schoolchildren in Hoavang, Danang City. From January to May 2023, a cross-sectional study was carried out utilizing a structured self-administered questionnaire to collect data. The height and weight measurements of 518 children were recorded. Body mass index for age Z scores (BAZs) were employed to classify children’s nutritional status following the World Health Organization criteria. Subsequently, the data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. The study encompassed a cohort of 518 students, 110 (21.2%) classified as overweight and 64 (12.4%) as obese. Significantly, the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) demonstrated that male subjects exhibited a 3-fold higher risk of overweight and obesity than female subjects (aOR = 2.9, P < .0001). Skipping breakfast and confectionery/sweet food consumption were defined, demonstrating significant associations with elevated odds of being overweight and obese. The findings revealed that approximately one-third of primary schoolchildren in Hoavang, Danang City, were affected by overweight and obesity. This alarming prevalence underscores the urgent need for interventions.