Patterns and risk factors of childhood overweight and obesity in Ile-Ife, Nigeria

Abstract

Childhood obesity is an emerging worldwide public health issue that crosses both poor and wealthy. The excess weight seen today posed significant health threat. The study examined the prevalence of overweight and obesity in Nigerian primary school children. There were 219 students, with a slight female preponderance and and participants recruited from private and public schools. The results indicated that 10% were overweight and 5% were obese, with high rates among girls and private school children. Although the mean Body Mass Index (BMI) of both groups was not significantly different p > 0,05, skinfold thickness was much higher in females, which indicated gender-specific fat distribution patterns. Compared to their public-school counterparts, children who attended private schools, tend to be linked with higher SES, had significantly greater adiposity and levels of BMI p < 0.01. Private schools pupils have significant higher overweight and obesity than public schools p < 0.025 and p < 0,35 respectively.