Obesity and overweight have been recognized as a growing health problem among children. This health
problem can affect a child’s health, educational attainment, and quality of life. Obese children and
adolescents were around five times more likely to be obese in adulthood and are at risk of chronic
illnesses. The study aimed to identify the prevalence of obesity and overweight and their risk factors
among children between 9 - 14 years of age in Minia governorate, Egypt. A cross-sectional study was
conducted on 1524 school children. Weight and height were measured then BMI was calculated using Z
score. WHO AnthroPlus software was used to calculate Z score. The prevalence of overweight and
obesity was 5.7% and 3.08% respectively. Obesity was more obvious among females (3.28%), public
school students (3.4%), and very low socioeconomic class (4.1%). Whereas, overweight was more
obvious among males (5.2%), private school students (8.9%), and high socioeconomic class (13.2%).
The prevalence of obesity was higher in female 3.28% than male 2.94%. The highest rate of obesity was
at the age of 13 years in females and 10 years in males. Lastly, the prevalence of overweight was
slightly higher in males 5.2% than females 5%. The highest rate of overweight was at the age of 13
years in females and 14 years in males. The prevalence of obesity and overweight was high among 13–
14 years old children in Minia governorate. Overweight and obesity should be more attracted by the
Egyptian pediatric population with paying attention to the updated health information |
