Obesity and Overweight in Children and Adolescents in São Paulo, Brazil
Author Information
Author(s): Duncan Scott, Duncan Elizabeth K, Fernandes Romulo A, Buonani Camila, Bastos Karolynne D-N, Segatto Aline FM, Codogno Jamile S, Gomes Igor C, Freitas Ismael F Jr
Primary Institution: Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Auckland University of Technology
Hypothesis
What are the modifiable risk factors for overweight and obesity in children and adolescents from São Paulo, Brazil?
Conclusion
Obesity in São Paulo children and adolescents has reached a level comparable to that seen in many developed countries, with key modifiable factors identified for future interventions.
Supporting Evidence
- 19.4% of boys and 16.1% of girls were overweight.
- 8.9% of boys and 4.3% of girls were obese.
- Overweight was associated with more computer usage and less active transport to school.
Takeaway
Many kids in São Paulo are overweight or obese, and things like how they get to school and whether they eat breakfast can make a big difference.
Methodology
The study involved a random selection of children and adolescents from schools, assessing their weight status and lifestyle behaviors through questionnaires.
Potential Biases
Self-reported data may introduce recall bias, especially in younger children.
Limitations
The study's cross-sectional design limits causal inferences, and pubertal stage was not assessed.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 3,397 children and adolescents aged 7-18 years, with 1,596 males and 1,801 females, predominantly white (74.1%).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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