Childhood obesity in Iraq: prevalence and possible risk factors

BACKGROUND: Childhood obesity is increasing in prevalence in developing countries. We conducted this study to assess the prevalence of overweight and obesity in primary school children age 7 to 13 years in central Iraq and to identify possible risk factors. METHODS: The study was conducted in Babil governorate from October through March 2002. Eight thousand three hundred pupils (4100 girls and 4200 boys) randomly chosen primary schools were included in the study. BMI was measured and compared to standard tables. Information on possible risk factors was collected by questionnaire. RESULTS: The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 6% and 1.3%, respectively. Significant associations were found between overweight and age, residency (urban-rural), birth rank, breast-feeding and certain dietary and lifestyle practices. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of obesity and overweight is relatively high in children in central Iraq. Modern dietary habits are an important influence in the development of childhood obesity that should be watched carefully and controlled.