Obesity and related behaviors among adolescent school boys in Abha City, Southwestern Saudi Arabia

Using stratified sampling technique 2696 adolescent school boys (aged 11-19 years) in Abha City, Southwestern Saudi Arabia were interviewed and examined for weight and height using standardized techniques. The overall prevalence of obesity and overweight in the present study amounted to 16. Using logistic regression analysis, lack of exercise practice in the previous week in general [aOR = 1.352, 95 confidence interval (CI) = 1.0661.941] or in the class (aOR = 1.446, 95 CI = 1.0831.931) were significantly associated with obesity. The present study showed that obesity among adolescent school boys in Abha City is a public health problem. There is a need for a national program in the country to prevent and control obesity among adolescents. The program should incorporate: dietary management of obesity, promotion of physical activity, health education campaigns and consideration of the possibility of providing facilities for practicing physical activity and exercise in the community.