Eating habits, inactivity, and sedentary behavior among adolescents in Iraq: Sex differences in the hidden risks of noncommunicable diseases

Abstract

Background. Noncommunicable diseases have become the main causes of death in several developing countries. There is a severe shortage of information about the risk factors for these diseases in Iraq. Objective. To explore the eating habits, physical activity, and sedentary behaviors of adolescents in Mosul City, Iraq, as risk factors for noncommunicable diseases. Methods. A multistage stratified sampling method was carried out on adolescents aged 15 to 18 years in Mosul City, Iraq. A pretested and validated questionnaire was used to obtain information on frequency of intake of certain foods, physical activity, and screen time (television, video, and computer). Weight and height were measured to obtain the body composition status. The total sample included 723 adolescents (350 boys and 373 girls). Results. There were significant differences between boys and girls in most eating habits and activity behaviors. The frequency of skipping breakfast and the intakes of fruits and vegetables, french fries, and sweets and chocolates were significantly higher among girls than boys (p < .001). Boys were significantly more likely to consume fast foods, sugar-sweetened drinks, and energy drinks than girls. Boys spent more time in physical activity (p < .001) and looking at screens than girls. Conclusions. The health authorities of Iraq should focus not only on interventions for undernutrition among adolescents, but also on behavioral risk factors for diet-related noncommunicable diseases.