The Prevalence and Risk Factors of Overweight and Obesity Among Children Seen as Outpatient at Paediatric Emergency Unit and Accident and Emergency Department in Kenyatta National Hospital

Abstract

Introduction: Childhood overweight and obesity are important causes of morbidities in both developing and developed country settings. Urban sprawl in many developing nations has led to an increase in the rates of childhood obesity and overweight. An increase in sedentary lifestyle and consumption of high calorie foods and drinks are among the major reasons contributing to this change(2)(3)(4). During the Covid 19 pandemic the rate of obesity among children increased compared to pre-pandemic period(5). Childhood obesity has a negative impact on overall health and is associated with comorbidities that increase hospital visits. Study Objective: To assess the prevalence and risk factors of overweight and obesity among children seen as outpatient in Kenyatta National Hospital (K.N.H). Methodology: A cross-sectional study among children seen as outpatient at paediatric emergency unit and accident and emergency in K.N.H was conducted. Informed consent was acquired from guardians of all the participants and assent was acquired where possible. We recruited 385 study participants using consecutive sampling. Weight and height were measured and body mass index calculated. A questionnaire was administered and nutritional status assessment done using the CDC gender specific BMI charts. Data was analyzed using R software version 4.0.2. Categorical variables were analyzed descriptively. Continuous variables were analyzed using median and interquartile ranges. Binary logistic regression was used in evaluating the risk factors associated with obesity and overweight. Odds ratios were adjusted in order to get the net effect of each risk. Results: The prevalence of obesity was 14% (CI 95%: 11%-18%) and that of overweight was at 8%(CI95%:5%-11%). School going age, household monthly income and transport to school had significant association with obesity and overweight. Conclusion: The prevalence of obesity and overweight was high among children seen at the emergency departments in Kenyatta National Hospital.