Author(s): CHEN Yan-lin, SUN Yan, BIAN Chen-yang, Department of Maternal, Child & Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Huazhong Univer-sity of Science & Technology
Pages: 73-75
Year: 2014 Issue:  1
Journal: Chinese Journal of School Health
Keyword:  Overweight; Obesity; Dangerous behavior; Factor analysis; statistical; Students;
Abstract: Objective To determine behavioral risk factors associated with overweight and obesity among middle school students and to provide insights for future obesity intervention. Methods A questionnaire survey was conducted to a clustered stratified sample of 1 011 high school students including demographic information,physical exercise,sedentary behaviors,dietary habits and social supports. Body mass index( BMI) was calculated. Overweight and obese students were classified according to Reference for Screening Overweight and Obesity in Chinese School-age Children and Adolescents. Results Significant differences were found in gender and grade in the prevalence rates of overweight and obesity( P<0.05). Gender,enjoy sports activities,in favor of fruits or vegetables instead of French fries or sugar,recommended limiting sedentary behavior from friends were protective factors for overweight and obesity risk among high school students. Conclusion Physical activities and dietary habits,as well as peers,are associated with obesity among children and adolescents. Modification of these behaviors has the potential to reduce weight.