[Weight status, dietary habits and physical activity among 6-12 year-old children in Castile-La Mancha]

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Public Health
• Nutrition Science

Background:

• Childhood obesity is a significant public health issue driven by poor nutrition and sedentary behavior.
• Unhealthy dietary patterns and inactive lifestyles are key factors in the development of childhood obesity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the weight status, dietary habits, and physical activity levels of children aged 6-12 years in Castile-La Mancha.
• To identify potential geographical, gender, and age-related differences in these health indicators.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 3061 children (6-12 years) from the "Alimenta su salud" program.
• Data collected via questionnaires assessing anthropometrics, food consumption frequency, dietary habits, and physical activity.
• Analysis considered gender, age, and geographical influences.

Main Results:

• Prevalence of excess weight-for-height was 24.0%, with obesity at 14.3%, showing geographical variations.
• Girls reported less physical activity and higher consumption of snacks and supplements compared to boys.
• Low intake of fruits and vegetables, coupled with high consumption of processed foods, sausages, sweets, and fast food was observed.

Conclusions:

• Approximately 25% of children in the study population are overweight or obese.
• Children's diets lack recommended fruit and vegetable intake and are high in obesity-promoting foods.
• Physical inactivity is more common on weekends and among girls, underscoring the need for targeted interventions.