BODY IMAGE DISSATISFACTION BY ADOLESCENTS FROM PUBLIC SCHOOLS IN CAXIAS DO SUL, RS

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of body image (BI) dissatisfaction in school children from the sixth year of public schools in Caxias do Sul - RS. Material and Methods: 1,230 school children aged between 11 and 14 years were assessed in this school-based cross-sectional epidemiological study. A self-applicable questionnaire was used to evaluate variables, and the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) was employed to assess dissatisfaction related to BI. Total body mass, height and waist circumference were measured. Results: BI dissatisfaction in the present study was found to be 18%. Boys were 60.3% less likely to be dissatisfied with their BI (PR=0.39-BI= 0.29-0.54) than girls. Overweight subjects were five times more likely to be dissatisfied with their BI (PR=5.67, BI =4.15 to 7.75). In addition, those with increased waist measurement were four times more likely to be dissatisfied with their BI (PR= 4.92, BI=3.61 to 6.71). Students of mothers with secondary or higher education were 30.6% less likely to be dissatisfied with their BI (PR = 0.69, BI= 0.50 to 0.96). Conclusions: Significant values were found for dissatisfaction related to body image and gender, nutritional status, waist circumference and maternal education. This should a concern for health and education professionals and for the local population as well. DESCRIPTORS: Body Image. Child. Adolescent.