Abstract

The objective of this cross-sectional study was to determine the prevalence of childhood obesity and investigate its association with socioeconomic factors. Methods: A representative sample of children aged 6 to 12 years was selected from different socio-demographic backgrounds. Data on height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) were collected using standardized measurement techniques. Socioeconomic factors such as household income, parental education level, and neighborhood characteristics were assessed through structured questionnaires. The prevalence of childhood obesity was determined based on age- and sex-specific BMI percentiles recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and logistic regression models, were employed to examine the association between childhood obesity and socioeconomic factors. Results: The study included a total of 200 children. The overall prevalence of childhood obesity was 25%. Significant differences in obesity prevalence were observed across different socioeconomic strata. Children from lower-income households had an obesity prevalence of 35%, while those from higher-income households had a prevalence of 15%. Similarly, children with parental education level of high school or below had an obesity prevalence of 40%, whereas those with college/university education had a prevalence of 20%. Additionally, certain neighborhood characteristics, such as lack of access to safe outdoor spaces for physical activity, were associated with an increased likelihood of childhood obesity. Among children with limited access to safe outdoor spaces, the obesity prevalence was 30%, whereas among those with access, the prevalence was 20%. These findings highlight the importance of addressing socioeconomic disparities and improving neighborhood environments to combat the prevalence of childhood obesity. Conclusion: This study provides evidence of the prevalence of childhood obesity and its association with socioeconomic factors. The findings highlight the importance of considering socioeconomic determinants when addressing the issue of childhood obesity. Interventions aimed at reducing childhood obesity should take into account the socioeconomic context and implement targeted strategies to mitigate the disparities observed in different socioeconomic groups. These findings contribute to the growing body of literature on childhood obesity and support the development of comprehensive public health initiatives to prevent and manage this significant health concern

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