Factors associated with BMI-for-age of third and fourth graders

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine BMI (body mass index)-for-Age of third and fourth graders and compare to reported eating habits and activity patterns. Subjects included all consenting third and fourth graders (N = 103) at an elementary school, 51 girls and 52 boys. The design was a cross-sectional, descriptive study consisting of a 19-question student survey regarding breakfast habits, snack, beverage, and activity preferences. Statistical analyses included descriptives and cross tabulations for all variables, ANOVA to compare BMI to breakfast frequency, usual and preferred beverages, and frequency of meals/snacks while watching television (TV), t-tests to compare mean BMI to breakfast frequency, opportunities for physical activity, TV/computer availability and sweetened soft drink use, and chi-square to compare BMI classification with preferences for leisure activities. BMI classification results were: underweight – 2 (1.9%), normal weight – 63 (61.2%), at risk of overweight – 22 (21.4%), and overweight – 16 (15.5%), similar to other published data. No single habit or preference was found to be associated with higher BMI-for-Age. This research helps to confirm the complex nature of childhood overweight. Multiple interventions are needed to impact this serious problem.