Rise in Childhood Obesity and Undernutrition in Urban Indo-Asian Children
Author Information
Author(s): Tazeen H Jafar, Z Qadri, M Islam, J Hatcher, Z A Bhutta, N Chaturvedi
Primary Institution: Aga Khan University
Hypothesis
What are the trends in nutritional status of school-aged children in urban Pakistan?
Conclusion
The study reveals a rapid increase in overweight and obese children in Pakistan, despite high rates of undernutrition.
Supporting Evidence
- 29.7% of children were underweight in the NHSP survey.
- 5.7% of children were overweight or obese in the Karachi survey.
- Physical activity was inversely correlated with being overweight or obese.
Takeaway
In Pakistan, more kids are becoming overweight and obese, even though many are still not getting enough food.
Methodology
Data from two surveys (NHSP 1990-1994 and Karachi survey 2004-2005) were analyzed for nutritional status of children aged 5-14 years.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to reliance on self-reported physical activity and dietary habits.
Limitations
The NHSP was nationally representative while the Karachi survey was limited to an urban area, which may affect generalizability.
Participant Demographics
Children aged 5 to 14 years, with a sample of 2074 from NHSP and 1675 from Karachi survey.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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