Evaluation of anthropometric profile in obese children: risk factors & eating disorder

ABSTRACT Background Nutrition is the most important environmental factor in the development and progression of childhood obesity, which is very common in Arabic countries. Aim Study of associated factors and nutritional status of childhood obesity. Methods This was a comparative study of 50 obese children recruited from the outpatient department of the children’s hospital, as well as 35 controls. The two groups were matched for gender and age. Anthropometric measurements have been undertaken. A food history as well as a frequency of consumption of certain foods were performed. Results There were 32 girls in obese group. Breastfeeding was more common in the control group (p = 0.04) but gestational diabetes, pregnancy weight gain, and macrosomia were greater in obese people (p = 0.002; 0.0001 and 0.004) . Food diversification was early in the obese (p = 0.05). Mobile phone use was higher among obese people (p = 0.001) but time spent watching TV was not significant (p = 0.06). There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding: the number of hours of sleep, and the practice of sport. Sedentary lifestyle concerned 34% of obese versus 8.57% controls. Intense physical activity was practiced by 14.29% of the controls against any obese (p = 0.0001). The anthropometric parameters of the parents of the obese were more important than those of the controls. The average BMI of the obese was 25.63 Kg/m2.The frequency of consumption showed a more caloric and fat diet in obese group.The diet of the controls was richer in proteins and lipids but better distributed in MUFA and PUFA, but the energy intake of the obese was significantly higher (10,612 versus 4097 Kcal/d). The mineral and vitamin intakes of the obese were correct. Conclusions The fight against childhood obesity essentially involves prevention and promotion of a good lifestyle.