Child Weight Status Research Articles

Parental practices and children's lifestyle correlates of childhood overweight/obesity in Europe: The Feel4Diabetes study.

Parental influences on children's eating and physical activity (PA) and consequently on their weight are fundamental. The present study aimed to identify the predominant correlates of childhood overweight/obesity among a variety of parental practices and children's lifestyle indices in a large sample of children in Europe. Families from low socio-economic status regions were recruited through schools, located in six European countries (Belgium, Finland, Greece, Spain, Bulgaria and Hungary). Seven thousand three hundred ninety-seven children 4-12 years old and their parents were selected using the FINDRISC-questionnaire. Parental practices assessed included parental role modelling, permissiveness and reward. Children's dietary intake and lifestyle behaviours were assessed through parent-reported questionnaires. Regarding parental practices, it was revealed that being sometimes (odds ratio [OR] = 1.26; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.10-1.43) or rarely (OR = 1.43; 95% CI = 1.21-1.69) physically active with the child was associated with greater overweight/obesity risk, whereas rare permission of computer/mobile/tablet (OR = 0.81; 95% CI = 0.67-0.98) and sometimes (OR = 0.77; 95% CI = 0.68-0.88) or rare (OR = 0.77; 95% CI = 0.66-0.91) reward with PA were associated with lower risk. Regarding children's lifestyle factors, consuming > 3 cups/week fresh fruit juices (OR = 1.28; 95% CI = 1.13-1.45), skipping breakfast (OR = 1.37; 95% CI = 1.17-1.61), absence of 1 h of daily PA (OR = 1.40; 95% CI = 1.24-1.58) and increased daily screen time (ST) (OR = 1.23; 95% CI = 1.09-1.39) were associated with greater overweight/obesity risk. All the variables were adjusted for maternal education, child's sex and age. These findings emphasize the necessity of family-centered approaches in health promotion and obesity prevention programs for children. Such programs should focus on parents as the primary role models in exerting positive influence and encouraging healthy eating habits, PA, and ST behaviors in their children, which in turn, may have a substantial impact on children's overall weight status.

The effectiveness of group-based, parent-only weight management interventions for children and the factors associated with outcomes: a systematic review.

Obesity in Childhood is a significant public health issue, which requires both a preventative and treatment approach. International guidelines continue to recommend family-focused, multicomponent, childhood weight management programmes and many studies have investigated their effectiveness, however, findings have been mixed and primarily based on weight. Thus, the aim of this review was to assess the effectiveness of group-based parent-only interventions on a broad range of child health-related outcomes and to investigate the factors associated with intervention outcomes. An electronic database search was conducted using CINAHL, Medline, PsychINFO, Embase and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews: 522 articles were identified for full text review and 15 studies were selected. The quality of studies were appraised and data were synthesised according to the review aims. Parent-only group interventions are effective in changing children's weight status, as well as other outcomes such as health behaviours and self-esteem, although these were reported inconsistently. Parent-only interventions were generally found to be similar to parent-child interventions, and minimal contact interventions but better than a waiting list control. Factors found to be associated with treatment outcomes, included session attendance, the child's age and weight at baseline, socioeconomic status of families and modification to the home food environment. The methodological quality of the studies included in the review was low, with only six studies rated to be methodologically adequate. Parent-only interventions may be an effective treatment for improving the health status of children and their families, particularly when compared with waitlist controls. However, results need to be interpreted with caution due to the low quality of the studies and the high rates of non-completion.

Family and child responses to asthma symptoms and associations with sleep in urban children with asthma: Does child weight matter?

ABSTRACT Family asthma management is linked to children’s sleep, yet it is unclear how child and family responses to asthma symptoms affect sleep, particularly for children with overweight/obesity. We evaluated the associations between family asthma management and sleep, and whether these relationships varied by child weight status (healthy weight, overweight/obesity) among 188 children (aged 7–9; 51% Latino, 33% Black/African American, 15% non-Latino White) with persistent asthma from urban environments. Family asthma management was assessed using semi-structured interviews, sleep was assessed via actigraphy, and BMI percentiles and BMI z-scores were calculated from objective height and weight measurements. More effective family asthma management and symptom response were related to better sleep for children with a higher BMIz. Findings suggest that children with comorbid asthma and obesity from urban environments need multicomponent interventions to improve sleep.

Protein Intake, Source and Effect on Children's Weight Status: An Epidemiological Study in Greece.

The development of overweight and obesity during late childhood and early adolescence is one of the most critical issues in public health. Additionally, over the past few years, the consumption of protein has tended to increase in both children and adults. The present study aimed to evaluate whether the protein type, either plant- or animal-sourced, as well as the quantity consumed, could potentially have a relationship with excess body weight in children. A total of 47 primary schools were selected, and 1728 students, aged 10-12 years, were enrolled for the purposes of this study, leading to our final sample of 712. Physical measurements, such as weight and height, were measured, and children were separated into two weight status categories according to their Body Mass Index, which was obtained through the International Obesity Task Force criteria. Students' diets were assessed through a questionnaire, and total, plant- and animal-derived protein intakes were calculated. Unadjusted analysis showed a statistically significant association between body weight and plant protein. After adjustment for overall energy intake, sex, age, and exercise, there was a statistically significant negative association between plant protein and excess body weight in children (OR: 0.964, 95% CI: 0.936; 0.992), but a lack of association for animal-sourced protein (OR: 1.002, 95% CI: 0.991; 1.013). Dietary plant-derived protein seems to have a positive effect on weight status in children, independently of total energy intake and physical activity; nevertheless, additional research is required in order to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Inter-individual differences in children’s short-term energy compensation: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundThe ability to regulate energy intake is often assessed using a preloading paradigm to measure short-term energy compensation. In children, large variability exists with this paradigm both within- and across- studies and is poorly understood. ObjectivesThis systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to better understand factors contributing to variability in children’s energy compensation. We tested 1) whether children demonstrated “good” energy compensation, defined as adjusting meal intake commensurate with preload intake and 2) differences in children’s energy compensation by child age, sex, and weight status (assessed both continuously and categorically). MethodsStandard guidelines for systematic review were followed to search PubMed, PsychInfo, and Web of Science. Data on study design (preload form, preload-to-meal interval, preload energy difference, study setting) and participant characteristics (sex, age, weight status) were extracted from 29 experiments meeting inclusion criteria, and 13 were included in meta-analyses. COMPx (energy compensation index), a linear transformation comparing food intake following a high- vs. low-energy preload, was the outcome. Hedge’s g was calculated, and random intercept-only models tested associations between COMPx and sex, age, and weight status. ResultsThe systematic review revealed mixed results regarding children’s energy compensation and the role of inter-individual differences. Meta-analytic models revealed that children undercompensated (overate) for preload energy (β = −0.38; P = 0.008). Sex (β = 0.11; P = 0.76), age (β = 0.03; P = 0.75), and weight (assessed continuously; β = −0.07, P = 0.37) were not related to compensation. Children with overweight/obesity (assessed categorically) undercompensated more than children with healthy weight (β = 0.18; P = 0.04). ConclusionsThe systematic review highlighted wide variability across studies, while the meta-analysis demonstrated differences in COMPx by child weight status but not by age or sex. Standardizing protocols across studies is recommended, along with designing adequately powered studies aiming to test inter-individual differences a priori. Alternative approaches to the use of COMPx are recommended to allow better characterization of children’s energy compensation ability.This study was registered at PROSPERO as CRD42020197748.

A Randomised Control Trial Investigating the Efficacy of the MapMe Intervention on Parental Ability to Correctly Categorise Overweight in Their Child and the Impact on Child BMI Z-Score Change at 1 Year.

Research suggests parental ability to recognise when their child has overweight is limited. It is hypothesised that recognition of child overweight/obesity is fundamental to its prevention, acting as a potential barrier to parental action to improve their child's health-related behaviours and/or help seeking. The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of an intervention (MapMe) to improve parental ability to correctly categorise their child as having overweight one-month post-intervention, and reduce child body mass index (BMI) z-score 12 months post-intervention. MapMe consists of body image scales of known child BMI and information on the consequences of childhood overweight, associated health-related behaviours and sources of support. We conducted a three-arm (paper-based MapMe, web-based MapMe and control) randomised control trial in fifteen English local authority areas with parents/guardians of 4-5- and 10-11-year-old children. Parental categorisation of child weight status was assessed using the question 'How would you describe your child's weight at the moment?' Response options were: underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and very overweight. Child weight status and BMI z-scores were calculated using objectively measured height and weight data and UK90 clinical thresholds. There was no difference in the percentage of parents correctly categorising their child as having overweight/very overweight (n = 264: 41% control, 48% web-based, and 43% paper-based, p = 0.646). BMI z-scores were significantly reduced for the intervention group at 12 months post-intervention compared to controls (n = 338, mean difference in BMI z-score change -0.11 (95% CI -0.202 to -0.020, p = 0.017). MapMe was associated with a decrease in BMI z-score 12 months post-intervention, although there was no direct evidence of improved parental ability to correctly categorise child overweight status. Further work is needed to replicate these findings in a larger sample of children, investigate mechanisms of action, and determine the use of MapMe as a public health initiative.

Modeling BMI z score lability during childhood as a function of child temperament and genetic risk for obesity.

This study aimed to examine whether child genetic risk for obesity and temperament (i.e., negative affectivity, effortful control) accounted for stability versus lability in children's weight status (BMI z score) over time. A total of 561 adopted children (42% female; 56% Caucasian, 13% African American, 11% Latino, and 20% other) and their birth and adoptive parents were followed from birth to age 9 years. The multilevel location-scale model was used to examine whether child genetic risk for obesity and temperament were related to differences in level and lability in child BMI z scores over time. For the full sample, higher levels of child negative affectivity were associated with greater BMI z score lability, whereas higher levels of effortful control and children's mean-level BMI z scores were related to less lability across childhood. Additional analyses examined associations within groups of children with healthy versus overweight/obesity weight statuses. Within the healthy weight status group only, better effortful control was associated with more stable BMI z scores, whereas genetic risk for higher BMI was associated with more labile BMI z scores. These findings provide insights into factors that can be harnessed to redirect unhealthy trajectories as well as factors that may challenge redirection or maintain a healthy trajectory.

Is obesity more likely among children sharing a household with an older child with obesity?

ObjectivesWe used a dynamic method of identifying household members from Electronic Health Records (EHRs) linked to National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP) data to estimate the likelihood of children with obesity sharing a household with an older child with obesity, accounting for individual and household characteristics.
 MethodsWe included 126,829 NCMP participants in four London boroughs and assigned households from encrypted Unique Property reference Numbers (UPRNs) at NCMP date for 115,466 (91%). We categorised the ethnic-adjusted body mass index of the youngest and oldest household child (underweight/healthy weight<91st, ≥91st to <98th overweight, obesity≥98th centile) and explored associations of the youngest child’s weight status with: oldest child’s weight status, number of household children (two, three or ≥4), youngest child’s sex, ethnicity and school year of NCMP participation (reception or year 6). We estimated adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of obesity in the youngest child.
 Results19,702 UPRNs were shared by two or more NCMP participants (youngest children: 51.2% male, 69.5% reception). 10.4% of youngest (95% CI: 10.0,10.9) and 13.0% of oldest (12.5,14.3) children were living with obesity. One third of youngest children with obesity shared a household with another child with obesity (33.2%; 31.2,35.2), compared with 9.2% (8.8,9.7) of those with a healthy weight. Youngest children living with an older child with overweight (aOR: 2.33; 95% CI: 2.06,2.64) or obesity (4.59, 4.10,5.14), those from South Asian ethnic backgrounds (1.89; 1.64,2.19) or taking part in NCMP in year 6 (2.21; 2.00,2.43) were more likely, and girls (0.73; 0.67,0.81), children living with just one other child (0.87; 0.77,0.98) and from Black ethnic backgrounds (0.78; 0.66,0.93) less likely, to be living with obesity.
 ConclusionLinked EHRs can provide novel insights into the shared weight status of children sharing the same household. Further qualitative research is needed to understand how household food practices may vary by other household characteristics to improve our understanding of how the home environment influences childhood obesity.

Association of Early Childhood Caries with Body Mass Index, Dietary Habits, and Socioeconomic Status among Preschool Children of Kelambakkam.

One of the most prevalent oral diseases affecting preschoolers, early childhood caries (ECC), can significantly lower a child's quality of life. The pain and discomfort that ECC causes will alter the child's eating habits, which will have an impact on both their physical and mental health, as shown by the deviation from the body mass index (BMI). Dental caries and deviation from the normal BMI are both significantly influenced by children's eating habits and socioeconomic status (SES). To determine the association of ECC with BMI, dietary habits, and SES among 3-6-year-old preschool children. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 375 preschool children of 3-6 years of age. The decayed, missing, or filled teeth (deft) index was used to determine the caries status. Measurement of height (m) and weight (kg) was done using a stadiometer and electronic weighing machine. For each child, the BMI (kg/m2) was calculated, and the child's body weight status was assessed using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-based classification. Questionnaires were collected with demographic details, 3 days diet diary, and the SES of parents. The dietary habit and SES were obtained from the healthy eating index-2005 (HEI-2005) score and Modified Kuppuswamy's Scale 2018. All the data were entered and analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software V 20.0. The prevalence of ECC was 44.8%. On comparison of mean height, weight, and BMI scores, there was a significant difference in mean weight (p = 0.006) and BMI (p = 0.001) among the two study groups. Children with ECC had a lower HEI-2005 score and belonged to a lower social class compared to caries-free children (p = 0.001). Children with ECC are significantly associated with BMI being overweight, or risk of being overweight; lower grades of SES and lower total score of HEI-2005 with poor diet and diet that needs improvement. Suresh A, Srinivasan D, AR SE, et al. Association of Early Childhood Caries with Body Mass Index, Dietary Habits, and Socioeconomic Status among Preschool Children of Kelambakkam. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(4):565-571.

FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH BODY WEIGHT STATUS AMONG CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER AGED 2-11 IN KUCHING DIVISION, SARAWAK

The high prevalence of overweight and obese among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) gains attention due to its substantial adverse health impacts. This study aimed to determine the associations between sociodemographic characteristics, parental feeding practices, child eating behaviour, and dietary intake with the body weight status of ASD children in Kuching Division, Sarawak. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 124 ASD children (83.9% boys and 16.1% girls) aged 2-11 years, together with their caregivers. The weight and height of ASD children were taken, and body mass index-for-age z-score (BAZ) was computed using AnthroPlus software. Child feeding practices, eating behaviour, and dietary intake were assessed through interviews, with the aid of a questionnaire. Multiple binary logistic regression was used in data analysis. The prevalence of underweight, risk-of-overweight, overweight, and obese ASD children was 3.2% (3.8% boys; 0% girls), 4.8% (2.9% boys; 15.0% girls), 16.9% (17.3% boys; 15.0% girls), and 20.2% (23.1% boys; 5.0 % girls), respectively. The multiple binary logistic regression revealed that the caregivers with high perceived child weight (AOR 31.313, 95% CI=6.127-47.218), high concern towards child weight (AOR 1.774, 95% CI=1.112-2.829), and high sodium intakes (AOR 3.747, 95% CI= 1.515-9.269) were significantly associated with increased risk of overweight or obesity, explaining 37.2% of the variation in body weight status. It is important to prioritise the perspective of caregivers’ feeding practices especially the caregivers with high perceived child weight and concerned child’s weight as well as sodium level of the ASD children while planning for obesity intervention programmes.

Parental Perceptions and Concerns Related to the Consequences of Pediatric Obesity: Feeling or Real Problem?

Lifestyle modifications (i.e., nutrition and physical activity) remain the main tools in the context of childhood obesity’s treatment and prevention of short and long-term consequences. At the same time, parental perception of child weight represents an even more important tool. It is known that more than half of parents of overweight/obese children underestimate their child’s weight status or are not worried about the risks associated with childhood overweight/obesity. Consequently, parental perception of childhood obesity can often be erroneous, and, even when accurate, subsequent parental behaviors can inadvertently contribute to the onset or persistence of childhood and adult obesity. Starting from the evidence that targeting a parent to induce a behavioral change is more effective than targeting the child only without parental participation, parental perceptions of childhood obesity can therefore represent a very important tool to take into consideration to achieve improvements in the context of childhood obesity. Therefore, knowledge of parental perception of children's weight status is needed to help pediatricians to organize and adapt activities and programs that promote healthy weight management among children. Specifically, early assessments of parents' perceptions of a child's weight, followed by regular follow-up visits, appropriate feedback, continuing education efforts, and efforts to follow the child’s weight status over time, can be potentially very helpful

Neighborhood park access and park characteristics are associated with weight status in youth.

This study investigated park access and park quality in the context of childhood obesity. Participants were 20,638 children ages 6-17y from a large primary care health system. Analyses tested associations of park access and park characteristics with children's weight status, and sociodemographic interactions. Both park access and the quality of nearest park were associated with a lower odds of having obesity. Park quality interacted with age, sex, and income. Findings suggest park access is important for supporting a healthy weight in children. Park quality may be most important among 12-14-year-olds, girls, and higher income groups.

Snacking and weight status in Malaysian Chinese primary school children

Snacking and weight status in Malaysian Chinese primary school children

Switching between foods: A potential behavioral phenotype of hedonic hunger and increased obesity risk in children

ContextReward-based eating is a trait that increases risk for eating in the absence of hunger (EAH) and obesity. Eating behaviors such as switching more frequently between different foods may increase intake during EAH by delaying the onset of sensory-specific satiation (SSS); however, this question has not been empirically tested. Objectives1) Test whether switching between foods mediates the relationship between reward-based eating and EAH intake. 2) Test whether switching between foods during EAH moderates the relationship between reward-based eating and weight status. MethodsData were analyzed from a study assessing decision-making in children (n = 63 children; 9.4 ± 1.4 years, 77.0 ± 22.4 BMI%tile). Reward-based eating was quantified using the Children's Eating Behaviour Questionnaire. EAH was assessed as the amount of palatable food consumed following ad libitum consumption of a standard meal. Videos of eating behavior were coded for eating time, number of different foods consumed, and food switches. Ordinary least squares regressions were conducted to test hypotheses. ResultsSwitching was positively associated with EAH intake for both kcal (p < 0.01) and grams (p < 0.01) such that each additional switch was associated with an increased intake of 17.0 kcal or 3.5 gs. Switching mediated the relationship between reward-based eating and EAH (p < 0.01) such that more frequent switching fully accounted for the positive association between reward-based eating and EAH (ps < 0.01). While reward-based eating was also positively associated with weight status (p < 0.01), this association was moderated by food switching (p < 0.01) such that the relationship was stronger for children who switch more frequently (p < 0.01). ConclusionsFrequent switching between foods was positively associated with EAH intake and mediated the relationship between reward-based eating and EAH. Moreover, reward-based eating was more strongly related to weight status in children who switched more frequently. Thus, food switching may contribute to overconsumption and be an important behavioral indicator of increased obesity risk in children. Studies across multiple meals and contexts will help determine if switching is a reliable behavioral phenotype.

Association of Maternal Pre-Pregnancy Overweight and Obesity with Childhood Anthropometric Factors and Perinatal and Postnatal Outcomes: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Pre-pregnancy overweight and obesity in reproductive-aged women becomes a growing tendency in middle- and high-income populations. This study aimed to evaluate whether maternal excess body mass index (BMI) before gestation is associated with children's anthropometric characteristics, as well as perinatal and postnatal outcomes. This was a cross-sectional study performed on 5198 children aged 2-5 years old and their paired mothers, assigned from 9 different areas of Greece. Maternal and childhood anthropometric data, as well as perinatal and postnatal outcomes, were collected from medical history records or validated questionnaires. Prevalences of 24.4% and 30.6% of overweight/obesity were recorded for the enrolled children and their mothers 2-5 years postpartum. Maternal pre-pregnancy overweight/obesity was more frequently observed in older mothers and female children, and was also associated with high childbirth weight, preterm birth, high newborn ponderal index, caesarean section delivery, diabetes type 1, and childhood overweight/obesity at pre-school age. In multivariate analysis, maternal pre-pregnancy overweight/obesity was independently associated with a higher risk of childhood overweight/obesity at pre-school age, as well as with a higher increased incidence of childbirth weight, caesarean section delivery, and diabetes type 1. Maternal overweight/obesity rates before gestation were related with increased childhood weight status at birth and 2-5 years postpartum, highlighting the necessity of encouraging healthy lifestyle promotion, including healthier nutritional habits, and focusing on obesity population policies and nutritional interventions among women of reproductive age.

Socioeconomic and gender inequalities in childhood obesity in Spain

IntroductionChildhood obesity is inversely associated with household socioeconomic status in high-income countries. Our aim was to explore the association between childhood weight status and household socioeconomic status in Spain in relation to family characteristics, perceptions and lifestyle habits and the school environment. MethodsWe performed a descriptive analysis of child weight status according to family socioeconomic factors and mediating variables based on data from the ALADINO 2019 study in a sample of 16,665 schoolchildren representative of the population aged 6–9 years in Spain. ResultsThe prevalence of childhood obesity in households with low socioeconomic status (26.8% boys; 20.4% girls) was, in both sexes, twice as high as in those with higher socioeconomic status (12.1% boys; 8.7% girls). Unhealthy eating habits, sedentary lifestyles (mainly in girls) and the presence of screens in the bedroom (more prevalent in boys) were more frequent in school-aged children from low-income households. On the other hand, in the most disadvantaged households, a history of breastfeeding and physical activity (especially in girls) were less frequent. Similarly, schools attended by children from low-income households were less likely to have their own kitchens and indoor gymnasiums or offer sports activities. ConclusionA lower household socioeconomic status was associated with poorer dietary and physical activity habits and certain characteristics of the family and school environments that mediate the inverse association between household socioeconomic status and the prevalence of childhood obesity. Girls were less physically active and reported more sedentary lifestyles, while boys had greater access to screens. Interventions to combat childhood obesity should address the identified inequalities.

Association and potential mediators between socioeconomic status and childhood obesity in China: findings from a national cohort study

ObjectiveSocioeconomic status (SES) is associated with childhood obesity, but the underlying factors remain unknown. This study aimed to identify mediators that may explain SES disparities in childhood obesity in China. MethodsNationally representative longitudinal data from the China Education Panel Survey of 11 019 children (13.03 ± 0.79) collected from 2013‒2014 to 2016‒2017 academic years. Overweight/obesity was defined using Chinese national body mass index cut-points. Principal component analysis was used to convert the four SES indicators (maternal and paternal education, and occupation) into one comprehensive variable. Mediation analysis for SES disparities in childhood obesity was conducted using structure equation models. ResultsThe prevalence of overweight/obesity was 12.8%, and was higher in boys than in girls (17.8% vs. 7.6%, P < 0.001) at baseline. Among boys, relative risk (RR) of obesity was 1.23 (95% CI: 1.09 to 1.40, P < 0.001) for per unit change in SES. There was no significant association between obesity and SES among girls. Mediation analyses showed that among boys, birth weight, being the only child in the family and children's self-perceived weight status mediated 70.0% of the effects of SES on obesity. No mediation effect was detected in girls. ConclusionsChinese boys are more likely to be overweight or obese than girls. SES may impact childhood obesity through birth weight, being the only child in the family and children's self-perceived body weight status in boys, but not in girls. More attention should be made to address childhood obesity in high SES families among boys. Interventions targeting at these mediators are needed.

Relationships of Maternal Employment and Work Impact with Weight-Related Behaviors and Home Environments of Mothers and Their School-Age Children.

The prevalence of obesity continues to rise. Preventing obesity, especially childhood obesity, is critically important. Parents, especially mothers, play a vital role in preventing childhood obesity. Numerous factors, such as maternal employment, may influence maternal weight-related practices and home environment characteristics that affect the risk of childhood obesity. Given the prevalence of both childhood obesity and maternal employment, this study was conducted to examine how weight-related maternal, child, and household behaviors as well as home environment characteristics differ by maternal employment hours and extends existing research by examining work impact on behaviors and home characteristics. U.S. mothers (n = 527) with at least one school-age child (6 to 11 years), who were between the ages of 25 and 54 years and the main food gatekeeper in the household completed an online survey. ANOVA comparisons of non-working, part-time employed, and full-time employed mothers revealed few differences in any of the variables studied. Cluster analysis of the 336 employed mothers based on six work impact scale scores found three unique clusters characterized as Enthusiastic Earners, Indifferent Earners, and Strained Earners. Few differences in sociodemographic and job characteristics occurred among clusters and the differences noted had small effect sizes. Clusters did not differ by maternal BMI or perceived child weight status. However, the clusters differed in numerous weight-related behaviors and home environment characteristics. Future research should aim to determine the direction of the associations of work impact with weight-related behaviors and home environments as well as identify potential strategies for overcoming the negative effects of employment on weight-related behaviors and environments and weight status as well as clarify other factors that may affect maternal work impact, such as time management, reasons for employment, and stress.

Desigualdades socioeconómicas y de género en la obesidad infantil en España

IntroductionChildhood obesity is inversely associated with household socioeconomic status in high-income countries. Our aim was to explore the association between childhood weight status and household socioeconomic status in Spain in relation to family characteristics, perceptions and lifestyle habits and the school environment. MethodsWe performed a descriptive analysis of child weight status according to family socioeconomic factors and mediating variables based on data from the ALADINO 2019 study in a sample of 16 665 schoolchildren representative of the population aged 6–9 years in Spain. ResultsThe prevalence of childhood obesity in households with low socioeconomic status (26.8% boys; 20.4% girls) was, in both sexes, twice as high as in those with higher socioeconomic status (12.1% boys; 8.7% girls). Unhealthy eating habits, sedentary lifestyles (mainly in girls) and the presence of screens in the bedroom (more prevalent in boys) were more frequent in school-aged children from low-income households. On the other hand, in the most disadvantaged households, a history of breastfeeding and physical activity (especially in girls) were less frequent. Similarly, schools attended by children from low-income households were less likely to have their own kitchens and indoor gymnasiums or offer sports activities. ConclusionsA lower household socioeconomic status was associated with poorer dietary and physical activity habits and certain characteristics of the family and school environments that mediate the inverse association between household socioeconomic status and the prevalence of childhood obesity. Girls were less physically active and reported more sedentary lifestyles, while boys had greater access to screens. Interventions to combat childhood obesity should address the identified inequalities.

Awareness about obesity among the mother of young child in urban area of Dhaka city, Bangladesh

Obesity as a condition in which excessive accumulation of fat in the adipose tissues has taken place. It arises when the intake of food is in excess of physiological needs. Obesity now considered as a “killer lifestyle” disease is an important cause of preventable death worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, 1.2 billion people worldwide are officially classified as, overweight. This is probably the most sedentary generation of people in the history of the world. To assess Awareness about obesity among the mother of young child in urban area of Dhaka city, Bangladesh. Cross sectional research with 105 participants among the target population of this study were mothers enthusiastically grace with presence in Dhaka City of Bangladesh. Data were numerically coded and captured in Excel 2007, using an SPSS 22.0 version. The study found that mean age of the participant was 3.70 (1.365) years and most of the participants were above 4 years. The youngest participants in this study were 1 year old and oldest participants were 5 years old. Obesity may induce the Musculo-skeletal problem obesity showed that strongly Agree participants were highest rate that was 51.4% (n=54) and strongly agree participants were rate that was 48.6% (n=51). Overall, parents showed a good awareness on nutrition and obesity. Unfortunately, such a good awareness was found insufficient to make them recognize the overweight problem in their children. There is a need for the improvement of the methods and content of nutritional educational packages as well as efforts to improve parents’ recognition of their child weight status.