Overweight and obesity among school-going adolescents in South India: Findings from a cross-sectional study
S. Kamalikha, Sandeep Kaur, Akashdeep Singh ChauhanABSTRACT
Background:
Adolescent obesity represents an escalating public health challenge in India, with limited evidence on its multifactorial determinants. This study was undertaken to assess the prevalence and determinants of overweight and obesity among school-going adolescents in South India. This study employed the waist-to-hip ratio and body mass index to assess central obesity.
Materials and Methods:
Four schools were selected using stratified random sampling. Preexisting validated questionnaires were adapted. Dietary intake patterns were assessed using the World Health Organization Oral Health Assessment Proforma and the NOVA food classification system. Physical activity (PA) was assessed using the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Adolescents. Anthropometric measurements were recorded using regularly calibrated standardized equipment.
Results:
Among the 372 sampled adolescents, the prevalence of overweight or obesity was 17.2% while 14% of participants had central obesity based on waist-to-hip ratio. Female participants (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 3.68; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.78–7.62), participants from upper (AOR: 4.85; 95% CI: 1.00–23.46) or middle (AOR: 6.07; 95% CI: 1.63–22.57) socioeconomic class, and those of older age (AOR: 2.00; 95% CI: 1.24–3.21) showed significantly higher odds of being overweight or obese. Consumption of three or more meals per day (AOR: 7.16; 95% CI: 1.43–35.61), moderate consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs; AOR: 2.94; 95% CI: 1.23–7.01), and higher consumption of culinary ingredients (AOR: 3.75; 95% CI: 1.08–12.98) were significantly associated with increased odds of central obesity.
Conclusion:
Higher UPF intake was significantly associated with central obesity, and adequate sleep and PA were associated with lower odds of overweight or obesity. There is a need for multilevel intervention, implementing school-based regulations to restrict the availability of UPFs and incorporating health education into school curricula.