Overweight and Obesity, and Associated Factors among High School Students in Gondar Town, North West Ethiopia

Abstract

Introduction: Overweight and obesity are defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation in the body that may affect health. The prevalence of overweight and obesity in children is increasing worldwide, and currently 1 child in 10 is overweight or obese. Overweight and obesity are now considered as very important risk factors for many chronic diseases which exploit high cost of medical care. Objective: To assess the prevalence of overweight and obesity, and associated factors among high school students in Gondar town. Methodology: Institution based cross-sectional study was conducted from April 12/2012 to April 30/2012 in Gondar town administration. A total of 800 students were included in the study. Multistage sampling strategy was applied to enroll students. Both bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was done to identify associated factors. Result: The overall prevalence of overweight and obesity in this study was 5.4% and 0.5% respectively. The prevalence of overweight among the adolescents studying in private schools was 10.1% and was higher than those studying in government schools (4%). Overweight was 4.47 times higher among girls [Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) =4.47; 95% CI: 1.79, 11.13], and 2.53 times higher among Students of private school [AOR =2.53, 95% CI: 1.33, 4.64]. Consuming sweet food item was significantly associated with overweight. However, moderate or vigorous sport activity for at least 10 minutes continuously was only marginally significant. Conclusion and recommendation: This study revealed that Overweight and obesity are emerging in Gondar. School type, sex and consuming sweet food item were among the predictors that were significantly associated with overweight. Hence decreasing consumption of sweet food items and doing physical activity could reduce risk of overweight.