Volume 42, Issue 1 pp. 1-9
POPULATION STUDY

Evaluating Weight Status, Snacking Patterns, and Physical Activity Levels Among Primary Schoolchildren in Relizane, Algeria: A Comprehensive Analysis

Zouheyr Hadri

Corresponding Author

Zouheyr Hadri

Department of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Relizane, Bourmadia, Relizane, Algeria

Correspondence: Zouheyr Hadri ([email protected])

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M'hamed Benada

M'hamed Benada

Department of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Relizane, Bourmadia, Relizane, Algeria

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Boualem Boumaaza

Boualem Boumaaza

Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Life Sciences, Ibn Khaldoun University of Tiaret, Tiaret, Algeria

Laboratoire de Biologie, Eau et Environnement, Université 8 Mai 1945 Guelma, Guelma, Algérie

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Sofiane Boudalia

Sofiane Boudalia

Laboratoire de Biologie, Eau et Environnement, Université 8 Mai 1945 Guelma, Guelma, Algérie

Département d’Écologie et Génie de l'Environnement, Université 8 Mai 1945 Guelma, Guelma, Algérie

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First published: 26 September 2024
Citations: 2

Funding: This work is funded by the Algerian Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and the Directorate General for Scientific Research and Technological Development (DGRSDT). The funders played no role in the study design, data collection and analysis, the decision to publish, or the preparation of the manuscript.

ABSTRACT

Objectives

This study aimed to comprehensively assess the weight status, snack consumption, and physical activity levels among primary schoolchildren, with a focus on both rural and urban areas.

Methods

This cross-sectional study surveyed 557 primary schoolchildren aged 6 to 12 years, covering general identification (age, gender), anthropometric measurements (body weight, height, waist, and hip circumference), food patterns (frequency of food consumption), and sports activities.

Results

Using CDC body mass index thresholds, we identified a 25% prevalence of obesity and over 17% for overweight, revealing a significant urban–rural disparity. In urban areas, boys had a higher obesity rate (32.58%), while girls had a higher overweight rate (15%). Conversely, in rural regions, girls had a higher obesity rate (24.82%), and boys had a higher overweight rate (22.3%). Dietary analysis showed that over 86% consumed three daily meals, but distinctions in snack choices, such as chips, wafers, and biscuits, were noted between urban and rural areas. Additionally, urban schoolchildren were more likely to participate in sports activities compared to their rural counterparts, with rates of 70.22% versus 55.08%, respectively.

Conclusion

Findings provide valuable insights into the health and food behaviors of primary schoolchildren and can inform interventions and strategies to promote healthier lifestyles.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Data Availability Statement

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

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