Media Exposure as Predictor of Childhood Obesity in Children Aged 7-12 Years in Gurgaon

Childhood obesity is a serious health condition, where kids weigh above the normal weight for their age. This sets an early stage for diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol and various other ailments that are actually related to adulthood. While the problem is global, it is relatively newer in Indian population but unfortunately; it is growing at a rapid rate. Increased consumption of fast food, sugar laden fizzy drinks, lack of physical activity and largely sedentary lifestyle comprising of watching television, playing video or computer games, playing on mobile phones and tablets due to the changing urban lifestyle are the major causes of childhood obesity.200 children aged 7-12 years attending a Public School in Gurgaon, participated in the study. Weight and height were measured and the BMI was calculated. Media exposure was assessed by a questionnaire designed especially for the study. Among all participants, a large number of children were found to be obese and overweight. Prevalence of obesity and overweight was higher in boys than girls. A large number of children had a screen time of more than five hours per day and several watched Television while eating, many children had TV in their bed rooms, most had Internet access and nearly everyone played video games daily. Easy accessibility of TV, smart phones and Internet has a strong relationship with childhood obesity and overweight.