ANTHROPOMETRIC, NUTRITIONAL AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ASPECTS IN SCHOOLCHILDREN FROM THE DISTRICT OF GROTÃO, JOAO PESSOA - PB

Abstract

Introduction: The consequences of childhood obesity include psychosocial difficulties such as discrimination, negative self-image, depression and decreased socialization. This study aimed to perform the anthropometric and nutritional assessment, as well as to determine physical activity patterns of children assisted by the Grotão Family Health Unit, Joao Pessoa, PB. Material and methods: This is quantitative, cross-sectional study, conducted between March and May 2011, in a public school. It was verified the anthropometric and nutritional status of 135 children aged between 7 and 9 years, using anthropometric standards as the height (cm) / Age (years) and Body Mass Index – BMI, and to estimate the dietary pattern and students' physical activity it was used the Typical Day Physical Activity and Food questionnaire (DAFA). Results: The prevalent nutritional status was normal weight, but representative rates of overweight and obesity were found. Association between nutritional status and gender was low (p=0.011), revealing a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity in females. On the categorization of physical activity levels, 76.1% of students were in the light category of physical activity, 23.1% showed moderate activity and only 0.7%, intense activity. The active offset (go to school walking or cycling) was reported by 74.8% of children, while the use of transportation (bike, car and bus) had a percentage of 25.2%. Conclusion: It is believed that information on diet and physical activity drawn from that population group may support future interventions aimed at behavior change and avoiding the worsening of the prognosis of overweight and obesity. It is necessary to integrate the largest possible number of variables such as family, school and civil society involvement in activities that promote behavior change. DESCRIPTORS: Anthropometry, Nutritional Transition, Feeding Behavior, Motor Activity.