The Effect of Obesogenic Environment and Socio-demographic Characteristics on Obesity Awareness Levels of Children

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of the study is to determine the effect of obesogenic environment and sociodemographic characteristics on children's obesity awareness levels. Materials and Methods: The sample of the study was composed of a total of 540 children studying at the 5th grade (63), 6th grade (73), and 7th grade (79) in the private school and at the 5th grade (131), 6th grade (103), and 7th grade (86) in the public school specified between the dates when the study was conducted. Descriptive Information Form, Obesogenic Environmental Evaluation Form (OEEF) and Obesity Awareness Scale (OAS) were used to collect the data. Results: It was determined that OEEF mean score was higher in children studying in the public school (10.50 +/- 2.23) than those studying in the private school (7.77 +/- 2.36) and the difference between them was significant. OAS physical activity subscale mean score was significantly higher in children studying in the public school. Conclusion: When OEEF and OAS mean scores were examined according to sociodemographic variables, it was found that there was a significant difference between the groups in terms of some variables. It was determined in the study that the children studying in the public school were affected more by the obesogenic environmental conditions and gender increased the obesity awareness level of the children. Within the scope of the fight against obesity, it is recommended to conduct consciousness-raising and awareness programs related to obesogenic environment in all educational institutions primarily in public schools.