Original scientific paper
Eating habits and obesity among school-aged children in Kosovo
Dafina Binaj
orcid.org/0009-0007-2366-6306
; Dr. Ali Sokoli Medical High School, Priština, Kosovo
Afrim Binaj
orcid.org/0009-0007-8988-0831
; Dr. Shpetim Robaj Health Care Centre, Mališevo, Kosovo
Abstract
Introduction: It has been stated that obesity is a public health issue that is progressively attaining epidemic proportions. Alarmingly, the prevalence of overweight and obesity is rising across different regions: the rates are less than 5% in Africa, 20% in Europe, and as high as 30% in the Americas and certain Middle Eastern countries. Over the past 20 years, obesity rates in Europe are thought to have tripled.
Objective: To study the prevalence of obesity among school-aged children (10-15 years) in Kosovo and collect information about their eating habits.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess anthropometric parameters based on BMI indicators. Body weight and height were measured in 674 students, and 448 of them filled out a questionnaire on eating habits. The data was analysed using SPSS software.
Results: Out of 674 students, 326 were boys. Among the boys, 13.4% were overweight. Among 348 girls, 8.6% were obese, and 8.9% were overweight. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was higher in urban areas compared to rural areas. The research showed that 38.8% of students consume fast food every day, and 42.0% frequently consume carbonated drinks.
Conclusion: The data show that obesity is more frequent in boys than in girls. This study highlights the need for further research in a larger sample to investigate the potential for higher prevalence rates of overweight and obesity. Additionally, the high consumption of fast food and carbonated drinks indicates the need for targeted nutritional interventions.
Keywords
obesity; childhood; overweight; eating habits; Kosovo
Hrčak ID:
325947
URI
Publication date:
31.12.2024.
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