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Objective(s): Obesity is a pivotal and costly issue prevalent in public health. In childhood, adolescence and adulthood, obesity can lead to serious medical issues. Considering the increasing rate in obesity and the high prevalence of consequent diseases stemming from it, a study of obesity levels among school students in Tehran was conducted in order to provide a profound understanding of the growing prevalence of obesity on school students.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a simple randomization was conducted whereby 20 schools were selected from among 5 of the 22 regions of Tehran (North, South, East, West and Central). A total of 1040 female school students were selected for this study. The height and weight were sequentially measured with the use of their respective standard measuring devices. Measurements of the weights of the candidates were conducted without shoes and additional accessories. Furthermore, the respective measuring devices were within one-tenth accuracy (centimeter and kilogram). The observed measurements were recorded and a BMI (Body Mass Index) was calculated for each individual.
Results: The mean age of the students examined was 10.6 years and with a standard deviation of 0.71. The median age of the students obtained was 11 years. According to CDC standards, obesity amongst female school students was found to be 8.65%, overweight at 16.54%, normal weight at 61.25% and underweight at 13.56%. In comparison, with reference to data obtained from WHO, 8.26% of students appeared obese, 21.83% were found to be overweight, 62.21% at normal weight, 5.87% underweight, and 1.83% extremely underweight.
Conclusion: With the results ascertained, it can be determined that there seemed to be a high prevalence of overweight and obesity amongst female school students. It is essential that immediate action be taken in educating children and their parents regarding nutritional diet, appropriate exercises and providing consultation on changing lifestyles.
