Growing up healthy: Body mass index patterns among primary school girls

Abstract

This research addresses the Body Mass Index (BMI) patterns among primary school girls in the Jashore district of Bangladesh, considering the escalating concerns regarding childhood obesity globally. The present study aimed to investigate the Body Mass Index (BMI) patterns among primary school girls in the Jashore district of Bangladesh. A sample of 300 girls (age ranged from 6 to 12 years) from classes one to five were chosen randomly in the study. Height and weight measurements were taken, and BMI was calculated according to WHO guidelines. Statistical analysis, including tests of normality and post hoc tests, was conducted using SPSS. The findings reveal a progressive increase in BMI with advancing academic classes. Significant differences in BMI were observed among Class 2 & Class 3 (p = 0.002); Class 2 & Class 4 (p < 0.0001); Class 2 & Class 5 (p < 0.0001); Class 1 & Class 4 (p = 0.027); Class 1 & Class 5 (p < 0.0001); Class 3 & Class 5 (p = 0.002) and also between Class 4 & Class 5 (p = 0.012). But there was no significant difference among Class 2 & Class 1 (p = 0.109); Class 1 & Class 3 (p = 0.117) and Class 3 & 4 (p = 0.523). The significance level was α≤ 0.05. The study provides valuable insights for public health interventions aimed at promoting healthy weight management among primary school girls in the region.