Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity and Association with Risk Factors in Secondary School Children in Croatia
2024

Overweight and Obesity in Croatian Secondary School Children

Sample size: 344 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Matana Antonela, Krajinović Helena, De Sanctis Luisa

Primary Institution: University Department of Health Studies, University of Split, Croatia

Hypothesis

What are the prevalence and risk factors associated with overweight and obesity among Croatian adolescents aged 15 to 18?

Conclusion

The study found that a significant number of Croatian adolescents are overweight or obese, with several risk factors identified.

Supporting Evidence

  • Boys are at a greater risk of being overweight or obese compared to girls.
  • Skipping breakfast is significantly associated with higher rates of overweight and obesity.
  • Children with less active lifestyles compared to their peers are more likely to be overweight or obese.
  • Higher BMI in mothers correlates with increased risk of obesity in children.
  • Children from smaller families are at a greater risk of being overweight or obese.

Takeaway

Many teenagers in Croatia are heavier than they should be, and things like not eating breakfast and being less active can make it worse.

Methodology

This cross-sectional study used an anonymous questionnaire to collect data from 344 secondary school students in Croatia.

Potential Biases

Potential for misreporting by parents regarding children's dietary habits and weight status.

Limitations

The study's cross-sectional design limits causal inferences, and data were self-reported by parents, which may introduce bias.

Participant Demographics

The sample included 344 children aged 15 to 18, with 46.5% boys and 53.5% girls.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3390/children11121464

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