Prevalence of overweight and obesity, and associated factors in school children from urban area in Chilpancingo, Guerrero, Mexico, 2004

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence rates for overweight and obesity among Mexican schoolchildren, identifying factors associated with the outcomes. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a sample consisting of 700 schoolchildren. Prevalence rates were calculated according to age and gender, and odds ratios were estimated by point and intervals, using multivariate logistic regression. Overweight and obesity prevalence were 28.1% and 13.7%, respectively. Risk factors for overweight were: mother's schooling (in years); eating while studying or watching TV; scores for risk food items > or = 12 points; sedentary activities > or = 1.6 hours/day, and birth weight > or = 2,890 grams. Obesity risk factors were similar to those related to overweight. Higher frequency of sport activities was detected as a protective factor in both outcomes. The associated factors for overweight and obesity highlighted the focus for health programs to prevent chronic diseases in this population, for which risk factors can already be identified in childhood.