ANALYSIS OF RISK FACTORS CAUSING OBESITY IN YOUTH

Abstract

This cross-sectional study examined the problem of overweight and obesity among students at COMSATS University, Lahore Campus. A random sample of 120 youths was surveyed using a well-constructed questionnaire to identify significant risk factors associated with weight issues. The students' BMI was used to assess their weight status. Cross-tabulation and multiple linear regressions were performed to analyze the data. The results showed that waist circumference, birth weight, meals during TV viewing, time spent on sedentary activities, celebration with food, parents' BMI, and breakfast skipping were positively linked to obesity. Conversely, vegetable consumption, fruit consumption, and feeling sluggish due to overweight were negatively associated with obesity. These findings emphasize the importance of addressing multiple factors in tackling overweight and obesity among youth. Implementing interventions targeting these risk factors could lead to effective prevention and management of weight problems.