Influences of role models and other factors on physical activity amongst 6 to 16 years overweight and obese students

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Physical activity is an essential aspect of living a healthy lifestyle, which offers a myriad of benefits for both the body and the mind. Nonetheless, a family history of obesity can pose significant challenges to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, which is further exacerbated by the academic stress. Individuals who have a role model that prioritizes physical activity are more likely to develop positive and healthy habits in their lives. Objectives: The study aimed to examine how role models affect physical activity and its impact on addressing challenges of family obesity history and academic stress in school children. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2019 to April 2020 in three schools in Amritsar district selected by lottery method of simple random sampling. Out of 4226 students, 355 overweight and obese students were interviewed regarding their physical activity. An informed written assent and consent was taken from the children and guardians respectively. Mothers of 6 to 11-year-old students and students aged 12 to 16 were interviewed using a pre-designed, validated, semi-structured questionnaire. Results: 51.3% had a family history of obesity while 14.9% and 14.6% of parents of overweight students had hypertension and diabetes, respectively. Over half (52.7%) lacked interest in physical activity and almost 33.5% of males were inactive. Students who chose movie actors as role models (71.1%) and those who found their role models’ information reliable (83.2%) were more likely to participate in physical activity. Of the 247 students who were knowledgeable about healthy living, a significant majority of 70.4% engaged in physical activity while 76% of overweight/obese students reported academic stress as a barrier. Conclusions: Study shows majority engage in physical activity regardless of gender. Over 70% have family history of obesity and healthy lifestyle knowledge. Stress reduces physical activity and students with movie/sports/fitness role models have better activity levels. Reasons for not engaging included dislike for sports and lack of time.