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Nutrition, physical activity, and gender risks for adolescent obesity in Southwestern Saudi Arabia
Ahmed A Mahfouz1, Abdullah S Shatoor, Mohamed Y Khan
1Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia. mahfouz2005@gmail.com
Background/Aim:
The aim of the study was to investigate gender differences in obesity and related behavior among adolescent school boys and girls in southwestern Saudi Arabia.
Patients And Methods:
A cross-sectional study on a stratified sample of 1,249 adolescent boys and 620 adolescent girls, was conducted in southwestern Saudi Arabia. They were interviewed and examined for weight and height using standardized techniques.
Results:
The prevalence of obesity and overweight in the present study amounted to 23.2% among boys and 29.4% among girls. The following significant risk factors were identified; being a female [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) =1.372, 95% confidence interval (CI) =1.099-1.753] and lack of class physical exercise (aOR =1.452, 95% CI =1.149-2.117).
Conclusion:
Obesity among adolescents is a public health problem in Southwestern Saudi Arabia. The problem is more prevalent among girls. Thus, there is a need for a national programme in the country to prevent and control obesity among adolescents.
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