Growth charts and obesity prevalence among Lebanese private schools adolescents.

INTRODUCTION

The objectives of this study were to establish weight, height and body mass index curves and to calculate the prevalence of obesity by sex and age groups in Lebanese adolescents of private schools.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Body weight, height and body mass index (BMI) were measured among 12299 adolescents aged 10 to 18 years from Lebanese private schools. Adolescents' growth charts were established. Obesity and at risk of obesity individuals were identified according to International Obesity Taskforce thresholds, and our numbers were compared to those of other countries.

RESULTS

Curves of weight, height and BMI were drawn. In boys, 10.1% were obese and 28.8% at risk of obesity. In girls, 4.2% were obese and 19.0% were at risk of obesity.

CONCLUSION

Lebanese private schools adolescents, particularly boys, present high prevalences of obesity and risk of obesity. Pediatricians should identify early adolescents at greater risk, in order to achieve a more favorable prognosis.