Prevalence of obesity in preschool Greek children, in relation to parental characteristics and region of residence
2007

Obesity Prevalence in Greek Preschool Children

Sample size: 2374 publication 10 minutes Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Manios Yiannis, Costarelli Vassiliki, Kolotourou Maria, Kondakis Katerina, Tzavara Chara, Moschonis George

Primary Institution: Harokopio University

Hypothesis

The study aims to record the prevalence of overweight and obesity in preschool children in Greece in relation to parental characteristics.

Conclusion

A high percentage of preschool children in Greece were found to be overweight, with parental body mass index identified as a significant risk factor.

Supporting Evidence

  • 31.9% of children were classified as at risk of overweight using the CDC method.
  • Children with one obese parent had 91% greater odds of being overweight.
  • Children with two obese parents had 2.38 times greater odds of being overweight.

Takeaway

Many young kids in Greece are overweight, and having overweight parents makes it more likely for them to be overweight too.

Methodology

A retrospective cohort study examining 2374 preschool children from 105 nurseries across five counties in Greece, using CDC and IOTF methods to classify weight status.

Potential Biases

Potential bias from self-reported parental data and the study's reliance on specific geographic regions.

Limitations

The study may not account for all socio-economic factors influencing obesity, and the reliance on parental self-reported data could introduce bias.

Participant Demographics

Children aged 1-5 years, with a near-equal distribution of boys (1218) and girls (1156).

Statistical Information

P-Value

p < 0.001

Confidence Interval

1.96 (1.48–2.59)

Statistical Significance

p < 0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2458-7-178

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