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Assessment of Child Anthropometry in a Large Epidemiologic Study
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Assessment of Child Anthropometry in a Large Epidemiologic Study

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Diet, physical activity, weight status, and culture in a sample of children from the developing world

Pamela S Gaskin1, Pamela Lai, Devon Guy

  • 1Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, Martindale's Road, St. Michael, Cave Hill, Barbados.

Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism
|November 30, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Childhood obesity in Barbados is linked to high sugar-sweetened beverage intake and sedentary behaviors. Parental influence on activity and children's school-based activity are key factors for prevention strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Nutrition
  • Obesity Epidemiology
  • Behavioral Science

Background:

  • Barbados, a small developing nation, is experiencing a significant childhood obesity epidemic.
  • Understanding children's dietary and physical activity (PA) patterns is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.
  • Limited data exists on the food and activity preferences of children in this cultural context.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe dietary and physical activity (PA) patterns in 9-11-year-old Barbadian children.
  • To examine the relationship between these patterns, weight status, and cultural context.
  • To assess adult encouragement of active and sedentary behaviors.

Main Methods:

  • Pilot study data from 62 children aged 9-11 years in Barbados.
  • Assessment of PA, sedentary activity, and dietary intake via recalls.
  • Measurement of children's weight and height to determine Body Mass Index (BMI).

Main Results:

  • Sugar-sweetened beverages constituted 21% of total energy intake.
  • Energy intake was a significant predictor of BMI.
  • Parents predominantly selected sedentary activities for children, encouraging homework and chores (59%).
  • Children's self-selected school-based activities showed a significant relationship with BMI.

Conclusions:

  • Childhood obesity prevention efforts should address culture-specific practices contributing to high sugar consumption.
  • Parent-child interactions regarding physical activity (PA) are critical.
  • School-based activity interventions show promise as a preventive research area.

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