Excesso de peso, circunferência da cintura e fatores associados em escolares da cidade de Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul

Abstract

Childhood obesity significantly increases worldwide causing with harmful effects to health. This study aimed to ascertain the prevalence of overweight and associate the nutritional status and waist circumference with pattern of food consumption and practice physical activity in school children from 7-9 years old. Was performed a cross-sectional quantitative descriptive study with 465 elementary school students. The variables analyzed were: Nutritional status (with or without excess weight), waist circumference, level physical activity and food consumption. We used chi-square test of Pearson to verify the differences between the proportions of independent and dependent variables, and p values lower or equal to 0.20 in the test were included in Poisson regression models gross and adjusted. The results revealed a high prevalence of excess weight (35.1%) and waist circumference (28%). The prevalence of waist circumference showed relationship with sedentary lifestyle. A low intake of fruits and vegetables and high frequency in the consumption of sweets and sugary drinks was observed. It takes more educational activities in schools promoting healthy growth.