Prevalence and Determinants of Childhood Obesity among Primary School Pupils in Edo State: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Childhood obesity is a global health concern associated with various adverse health outcomes. This cross-sectional study aims to determine the prevalence of childhood obesity and explore the factors contributing to obesity among primary school pupils in Edo State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was employed to select 1,805 pupils from sixteen schools in Edo State. Data on body composition, including weight, height, arm circumference, and skin folds measurements, were collected by qualified nurses and research assistants. Additionally, a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and a food consumption pattern questionnaire (FCPQ) were administered to assess the pupils' food consumption patterns. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS version 23, including frequency distributions, percentage distributions, mean, standard deviations, chi-square and independent samples t-test statistics. The study found out that 14% of pupils in the state were obese, and that skipping lunch, eating alone and engaging in physical activities after school had a significant relationship with the prevalence of obesity (p = 0.049, 0.040 and 0.035 respectively). Also, children in urban areas had a higher likelihood of obesity compared to those from rural areas (p < 0.000), while girls exhibited slightly higher prevalence of obesity compared to boys, though the difference is insignificant (p = 0.769). The study concluded that the prevalence of childhood obesity is high in Edo State of Nigeria, and that the determinants of this prevalence include dietary patterns, cultural factors, and gender. Keywords: Childhood obesity, prevalence, determinants, primary school pupils, Edo State, Nigeria