Factors that influence obesity in children at primary schools in England and France

Abstract

Overweight and obesity in children are considered a world health problem. In Europe the incidence of obesity is high, although it has been reported that levels of obesity are lower in France than in the UK. This study aims to make a comparison of the incidence, and cultural/lifestyle-related factors that affect obesity in school-aged children living in England and France. The study was set in Monetier-les-Bains, France and South West London, UK. Ninety-eight French children and 105 English children were recruited for this cross-sectional quantitative study. Anthropometric measurements and a questionnaire were used to obtain data and information that included details on hobbies and physical activities, distance to school and travel arrangements. Chi squared and t-tests were used to statistically compare the data. The results showed a significant difference (P < 0.01) between the weights, body mass indexes and waist circumferences of French and English children. Furthermore, 32% of the English children were classified as overweight or obese, whereas none of the French children were. There were significant differences (P < 0.01) in the levels of out-of-school physical activity undertaken by the French children and that of the English children. The level of sedentary activity, television viewing and computer use was also significantly different (P < 0.01). Factors such as the role of food in French culture, the lack of fast food outlets in the studied area of France, distances walked to and from school and choice of physical activities and hobbies undertaken in and out of school are seen as the main positive influences on energy balance in the French children. These findings have highlighted areas worthy of intervention in the battle against obesity.