Body image satisfaction, weight perception and knowledge of obesity among adolescents in Kaski district, Nepal

Abstract

Objectives: Body image dissatisfaction and incorrect body weight perception are raising problems among the adolescents worldwide. They are at increasing level in developing countries undergoing economic and nutritional transition like Nepal. To find out the body image satisfaction, body weight perception and knowledge of obesity among adolescents in Kaski district, Nepal. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among 838 adolescents in Kaski district, Nepal from 12 schools selected randomly using multistage cluster sampling. Data collection was done in between October to December, 2013 by using anthropometric assessment and self-administered questionnaire through use of pretested tools. Data was entered and analyzed using WHO anthroplus software v.1.0.4 and SPSS v. 16. Results: Majority of the adolescents, 630(75.2%) were found satisfied with their body image and 208(24.8) weren’t. The body image satisfaction rate was comparatively found higher among adolescents with normal BMI for age, 509(79.3%) and the underweight, 86(67.2%). More than half of the overweight adolescents, 27(55.1%) perceived themselves as normal, 19(38.8%) perceived as overweight and 3(6.1%) perceived as obese. Majority of the adolescents had right knowledge on obesity however no significant association was found. Conclusion: Body image satisfaction among the adolescents was found high. Overweight and obese were found likely to underestimate their body weight. Interventions focusing on behavioral modifications and regular anthropometric assessment are essential.