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Risk factors of obesity in preschool children in China: a population-based case--control study
1Department of Paediatrics, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, China.
Insights
High birth weight, rapid eating speed, and family history of obesity are key risk factors for childhood obesity in China. These findings highlight the need for family-based interventions and behavior modification programs.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Genetics
Background:
- Childhood obesity is a growing global health concern.
- Identifying specific risk factors in preschool populations is crucial for effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the significant risk factors associated with obesity in preschool children within China.
Main Methods:
- A nationwide case-control study was conducted across eight Chinese cities.
- Data were collected from 748 boys and 574 girls, matched for age and sex.
- Measurements included weight, height, activity levels, feeding patterns, and family history.
Main Results:
- Significant risk factors identified include high birth weight (≥4.0 kg), rapid eating speed, and a family history of obesity (≥25% of relatives).
- Maternal and paternal Body Mass Index (BMI) above 25 kg/m² were also significant predictors.
- Statistical significance was established at P < 0.05.
Conclusions:
- Family history, high birth weight, and eating speed are critical risk factors for preschool obesity in China.
- Intervention programs should incorporate family therapy and behavior modification strategies.
- Addressing these factors can aid in combating childhood obesity.
Objective:
To identify the risk factors of obesity in preschool children in China.
Design:
A nationwide case-control study in eight cities in China.
Subjects:
A total of 748 boys and 574 girls (age 0.1 - 6.9 y), including the obese and non-obese. One obese child was matched with one non-obese child by sex and age.
Measurements:
Weight, height and other measurements were taken for all the subjects. The information on child activity, feeding pattern and family background was collected by our study team from the parents and the kindergarten teacher.
Results:
Birth weight > or =4.0 kg, high eating speed, obesity among the child's relatives > or =25%, mother's body mass index (BMI) > 25 kg/m2 and father's BMI > 25 kg/m2 were identified as the major significant (P < 0.05) risk factors of obesity in preschool children in China.
Conclusion:
Family history of obesity, high birth weight and eating speed were identified as the risk factors of obesity in preschool children in China. Our results show the need for family therapy as part of an intervention program for childhood obesity, which includes behavior modification.