Baseline Study. Obesity Childhood in Cuenca-Ecuador: Prevalence and Risk Factors

Hypothesis: Obesity in children of Cuenca is related with socioeconomical status and physical activity habits.

Summary:

The prevalence of obesity and overweigh in all age groups are increasing rapidly in the world. Some factors like physical activity, socioeconomical status, dietary habits, gender, besides genetic factors influence in the development of obesity.

In Cuenca - Ecuador lack information related to prevalence of overweight and obesity in children and the risk factors related.

Socioeconomical status and quality of physical activity are assessed using specially designed questionnaires in a randomized sample of children 6 to 9 years of age of Cuenca city. Nutritional status is assessed using body mass index, relation weight/age and height/age. These data are helpful to develop programs focused to improve nutritional status in scholars of Cuenca.