Prevalence of childhood obesity in Thimphu, Bhutan

Abstract

The epidemic of childhood obesity has increased drastically and has become one of the major public health concerns worldwide. Childhood obesity is likely to persist in adulthood as well with adverse health impacts. This study aimed to contribute in reducing the prevalence of childhood obesity in Bhutan by exploring how the socioeconomic status of the family and intake of fast food and savory snacks are attributing to childhood obesity among the primary school children of Thimphu. A cross-sectional online study was conducted among the primary school children of age between 5-15 years old. Height and weight measurements of the students were obtained from the school record and the Body Mass Index (BMI) based on age and sex was calculated using the online CDC calculator. Data were analyzed using SPSS and for finding the associations between the risk factors and obesity, Chi-square and logistics regression were used. A total of 200 students were included in the study. One in five children were either obese or overweight (20%). The prevalence of obesity (>95th percentile) was 9 % and overweight (≥85th percentile) was 11 % among the children. Social characteristics, lifestyle preferences and intake of savory snacks were associated with the obese status of the children. Most obese children were from the household where both parents were working (AOR=2.44 95% C.I=0.23-25.16), education level of parents higher secondary or above, using of private cars or public transport to school (p<0.05) and consuming of savorry snacks (AOR=2.48, 95% C.I=0.57-10.76). Childhood obesity can affect children's physical health, social, and emotional well-being, and self-esteem. Considering its negative impacts, immediate interventions are needed to reduce the prevalence of childhood obesity in Bhutan.