Obesity in Thai Adolescents: Lifestyles, Health Attitudes and Psychosocial Concerns

Abstract

Objective: To determine the dietary pattern, lifestyle factors, and psychosocial concerns in Thai obese adolescents.

Methods: Students’ school health records under the Siriraj School Health Network was reviewed during the academic year of 2005. Those with body mass indices (BMI) ≥25 kg/m2 were asked to complete a self-administered questionnaire divided into three parts; 1) health attitudes and psychosocial concerns; 2) dieting lifestyle; 3) physical activity lifestyle.

Results: The prevalence of overweight and obesity among 718 from 5,071 students from Siriraj School Health Network was different between genders (7.7% and 2.5% in male vs. 2.9% and 1% in female). Of those, 403 voluntarily answered the self-administered questionnaires. The majority of students (87.9%) were not satisfied with their actual weight, and tried to lose weight (94.2%). Concerning their lifestyles, 79.4% and 49.6% had taken high calorie food mostly fast food and dined buffet-style at least once a week respectively, while half disliked fruits and vegetables, and 15.4% skipped breakfast. Also, the majority of students exercised less than the standard recommendation of at least three days a week, with more than two thirds, excusing not having enough time to practice while 48% spending at least three hours a day watching television and playing computer. Importantly, more than half of them had weight- related psychosocial problems presenting as poor self image, low self esteem and self confidence.

Conclusion: Unhealthy lifestyles, poor health attitudes and negative psychosocial concerns were reported among Thai obese adolescents. Strategies for successful obesity prevention are discussed in this article.