Mapping Adolescent Nutritional Health: Early Clues for Preventing Obesity and Diabetes
Nur Rochmah, Yuni Hisbiyah, Rayi Kurnia Perwitasari, Nabilah Azzah Putri Wairooy, Safira Shafa Rachmah Hartawan, Abdulsalam Abu-Libdeh, Muhammad FaiziIntroduction:
Adolescent obesity is rapidly increasing worldwide and is closely linked to early metabolic changes, including type 2 diabetes, highlighting the need for early identification using simple measures, i.e. body mass index (BMI), mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and random blood glucose (RBG). This study aims to show the difference in nutritional status and blood glucose between sexes in adolescents, and also to evaluate the association between anthropometric indicators and RBG, as well as to assess sex-based differences among adolescents.
Methods:
This cross-sectional study was conducted across two middle schools in East Java, focusing on adolescents aged 12–18 years old using consecutive sampling. Standardized procedures were used to measure height, weight, MUAC, and waist circumference. BMI categories followed the World Health Organization growth references, while WHtR was calculated. RBG was measured through a fingertip prick. Statistical analysis was used, and data were processed using SPSS version 30. Ethical approval was given by the Health Research and Ethics Committee. Statistical analysis was used, and data were processed using SPSS version 30. Ethical approval was given by the Health Research and Ethics Committee.
Results:
A total of 386 adolescents participated (56.2% male). Median height, weight, BMI, WHtR, and RBG were 159 cm, 52.5 kg, 20.5 kg/m 2 , 0.46, and 96 mg/dL. Male’s student showed higher rates in underweight (26.9%), overweight (14.8%) and obese (6.0%). In contrast, a high WHtR (>0.5) was identified in 44.3% of students, more frequently in females. Prediabetes was rare (1%) but occurred mostly in males.
Conclusions:
The results underscore the importance of early, targeted interventions focused on preventing obesity during adolescence, emphasizing school-based screening value, and mining the gap in adolescents among the Indonesian population.