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Medical Channel Journal
2026, Volume 32, Issue 2 : 1-7
Research Article
Prevalence of Childhood Obesity and Associated Lifestyle Factors
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1
Department of Pediatrics, Central Medical College, New Delhi, India
2
Department of Community Medicine, Central Medical College, New Delhi, India
3
Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Central Medical College, New Delhi, India
4
Department of Public Health, Central Medical College, New Delhi, India
Abstract

Background: Childhood obesity has emerged as one of the most significant public health challenges worldwide. Rapid urbanization, unhealthy dietary habits, reduced physical activity, and increased screen time have contributed to a growing prevalence of overweight and obesity among children. Childhood obesity is associated with metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and increased cardiovascular risk later in life.Objective: To determine the prevalence of childhood obesity and evaluate the lifestyle factors associated with obesity among school-aged children.Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 500 children aged 6–15 years attending urban and rural schools. Demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, dietary habits, physical activity, screen time, sleep duration, and family history of obesity were assessed. Body mass index (BMI) was classified according to World Health Organization age- and sex-specific growth standards. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, and multivariate logistic regression.Results: The overall prevalence of overweight and obesity was 17.4% and 11.6%, respectively. Obesity was significantly associated with high-calorie food consumption, prolonged screen time (>2 hours/day), reduced physical activity, inadequate sleep, and parental obesity (p<0.05). Children with obesity demonstrated significantly higher waist circumference and elevated blood pressure compared with children of normal weight.Conclusion: Childhood obesity is increasingly prevalent and strongly associated with unhealthy lifestyle behaviors. School-based health education, regular physical activity, healthy dietary practices, reduced screen exposure, and parental involvement are essential strategies for preventing childhood obesity.

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