Eating Habits, Activity Pattern and Socioeconomic Factors That
Affect the Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity among
Adolescents in Urban Areas of Enugu State, Nigeria
Abstract:
This study was designed to assess the influence of eating habits, activity pattern and
socioeconomic factors on the prevalence of overweight and obesity among adolescents in urban areas of
Enugu State, Nigeria. A total of 250 adolescents (10-19 years) consisting of 114 males and 136 females
were randomly selected from six private and public schools. A structured questionnaire was used to collect
information on the background, food habits and activity pattern of the adolescents. Anthropometric
measurements (weight and height) of the adolescents were obtained using standard instruments and
procedures and used to calculate their Body Mass Index (BMI). The BMI were categorized into obesity,
overweight, normal and thinness using the International Obesity Task Force (IOTF) criteria. The WHO adult
BMI classification was used to classify the adolescents who were 19 years of age. Data obtained were
analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), version 17. A total of 3.4% overweight and
5.7% obese adolescents were from highest income families. The prevalence of the overweight and obesity
among adolescents who skipped breakfast was 13 and 3.7%, respectively. Family income, snacking habit,
means of going to school and presence of house helps are important factors that influenced the prevalence
of overweight and obesity among adolescents in the study area.
How to cite this article
Ani Peace Nwanneka, Ene-Obong Henrietta Nkechi and Uvere Peter Orji, 2016. Eating Habits, Activity Pattern and Socioeconomic Factors That
Affect the Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity among
Adolescents in Urban Areas of Enugu State, Nigeria. Pakistan Journal of Nutrition, 15: 288-294.
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