BMI and Lifestyle Pattern - A Cross Sectional Study among Adolescent School Students in an Urban Area of West Bengal, India

BACKGROUND Obesity is one of the serious public health challenges of the 21st century. Studies in urban India showed that overweight / obesity among adolescents varied from 10.45 % to 21 %. Obesity / overweight is a major risk factor for no communicable disease and some cancers. We wanted to determine the prevalence of obesity and related lifestyle behaviour among the adolescent students. METHODS A descriptive study was carried out among adolescent students in an urban area of West Bengal. BMI was assessed according to WHO growth reference for school children (5 - 19 years). Food frequency data and pattern of physical activity was recorded based on GSHS. Adequacy of physical activity was assessed based on set WHO criteria. Data was collected with a self-administered structured schedule. Anthropometric measurements and record review were done. RESULTS 3.5 % were obese. 12.6 % were overweight, 75.3 % were of normal weight, 8.6 % were thin. Daily consumption of vegetables, milk and fruits were 58.1 %, 31.1 % and 9.3 % respectively. Consumption of carbonated soft drink and fast food was low. All consumed iodised salt and 18.2 % consumed extra salt. 23.9 % of the students performed the recommended physical activity. 46 % student used computer, 53.2 % used mobile. Most watched TV. Overweight / obesity was significantly related to type of family, vegetable consumption and history of chronic diseases in the family. CONCLUSIONS About 16.1 % of the students were overweight / obese. Physical activity and dietary pattern were not satisfactory. A substantial number of students used computer, mobile and watched TV. Thus, promotion for intake of healthy diet, adequate physical activity, and regular health check-up is recommended. KEYWORDS Adolescent Students, Lifestyle, Obesity, Urban