Analysis of the impact of television exposure and sociodemographic characteristics on body mass index, in children from 6 to 11 years

Abstract

Introduction: The prevalence of childhood obesity has future health implications and television has been cited as a contributing factor, either by encouraging the consumption of caloric foods or by leading to physical inactivity. The socioeconomic status of parents has been identified as a determinant of eating behavior, influencing the prevalence of overweight children. Objective: To analyze the impact of television exposure and sociodemographic characteristics on children's Body Mass Index (BMI). Material and methods: Quantitative, cross-sectional and analytical study conducted on a sample of 208 children, with a mean age of 7,99 ± 1,33. A questionnaire adapted from Vicente-Rodriguez et al was applied, and an anthropometric assessment was performed for all children. Results: It was found that 57,3% of children watch television every day and 65,9% do not have a television set in their rooms. There was a statistically significant correlation between family income and hours of television exposure per week in males (p=0,018); between the parents level of education and the BMI in both genders (p=0,043 in males; and p=0,009 in females); and between BMI and number of household members in males (p=0,001). Conclusion: In this sample of children, there were no significant correlations between BMI and days or hours of television viewing, however, it is necessary to stimulate activities that promote an active lifestyle, considering that the prevalence of childhood obesity is high in most developed countries. There was a statistically significant relationship between sociodemographic characteristics and BMI, proving that they are determinant in child health.