Anthropometric variables, lifestyle and sports in school-age children: comparison between the cities of Bologna and Crotone

Publication date: Available online 5 October 2014 Source:HOMO - Journal of Comparative Human Biology Author(s): S. Toselli , P. Brasili , T. Iuliano , F. Spiga Weight disorders are rapidly increasing in childhood. In Italy a strong geographic North-South gradient of overweight and obesity has been reported. The purpose of this study is to examine anthropometric variables, physical activity and lifestyles in school-age children in the cities of Bologna and Crotone. The sample consists of 963 children attending primary schools, aged 6-10 years. Height, weight, triceps, and subscapular skinfolds were measured for each child; body mass index (BMI) and percentage of fat mass were calculated. Physical activity was determined through an interview with each child. Another questionnaire was submitted to parents, in order to obtain information on sleep duration, means of transport and type of physical activity. In the city of Bologna, the mean values of anthropometric variables were: height (boys - 1335mm, girls - 1332mm), BMI (boys - 17.8kg/m2, girls - 17.3kg/m2), and the proportion of overweight and obese individuals was: boys - 20.6%, girls - 12.7%. In Crotone the mean values were: height (boys - 1275mm, girls - 1265mm), BMI (boys - 19.4kg/m2, girls - 19.3kg/m2), and the proportion of overweight and obese individuals was: boys - 46.7%, girls - 49.0%. The results have demonstrated significant correlations of lifestyle and physical activity with children's weight status. In Cr...
Source: HOMO Journal of Comparative Human Biology - Category: Biology Source Type: research