Prevalence and Predictors of Overweight and Obesity Among Primary School Children in Cairo, Egypt: The Role of Dietary and Lifestyle Factors

Abstract

Background and Objective: Childhood obesity is a growing global health concern associated with sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy dietary habits, with substantial health consequences during both childhood and adulthood. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity among primary school children aged 6-12 years and to identify key factors associated with these conditions. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 600 children enrolled in two primary schools, including a public Arabic-language school and a public language school, in East Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt. Results: The overall prevalence of overweight and obesity was 15.7 and 12.7%, respectively. Girls had higher prevalences of both overweight and obesity than boys. Body mass index (BMI) was positively correlated with age and inversely correlated with meal frequency and physical activity. Consumption of specific foods, including meatballs, shrimp, and burgers, as well as soft drinks, was associated with higher BMI. Logistic regression analysis identified the father's occupation and late dinner consumption as significant predictors of obesity, whereas regular breakfast consumption was associated with a lower likelihood of obesity. Conclusion: Socioeconomic factors and specific dietary habits are important predictors of childhood obesity. Preventive strategies targeting healthy dietary practices, regular meal patterns, and increased physical activity may help reduce the risk of overweight and obesity among school-age children.