PREVALENCE OF CHILDHOOD OBESITY AND ITS CORRELATION WITH SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS IN URBAN AREAS

Abstract

Childhood obesity has become a significant public health concern, particularly in urban areas where lifestyle and environmental factors contribute to increased prevalence. Socioeconomic status plays a crucial role in determining health outcomes, with children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds facing higher risks of obesity. Understanding these correlations is essential for developing effective interventions to combat childhood obesity. Objective: To investigate the prevalence of childhood obesity in urban areas and analyze its correlation with socioeconomic status, aiming to identify underlying factors contributing to this public health issue. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from January to June 2024 in Allied Hospital Faisalabad, targeting 190 children aged 5 to 15. A multi-stage sampling technique ensured diverse socioeconomic representation. Data collection included demographic questionnaires, dietary habits surveys, and physical assessments to measure height, weight, and BMI. Socioeconomic status was assessed using a composite index of parental education, household income, and occupation. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression using SPSS software version 26. Results: The study found that 42.6% of the children were of average weight, 27.3% were overweight, and 30.0% were obese. Among children from low socioeconomic backgrounds, 43.3% were obese, compared to 24.7% from middle and 22.2% from high socioeconomic statuses. The prevalence of obesity was significantly higher in low socioeconomic status children (p<0.05). Conclusion: The findings indicate a significant correlation between socioeconomic status and childhood obesity, with higher obesity rates among children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. These results underscore the need for targeted public health interventions to address the socioeconomic determinants of childhood obesity, promoting healthier lifestyles and improving access to nutritious food and physical activity resources.