Obesity in 10-year olds: An epidemiologic study

The importance of several factors in the origin of childhood obesity were investigated using a multifactorial pathogenetic model. Following a longitudinal study of 972 children from 7 to 16 years of age, 550 subjects were selected at age 10. Information was obtained from the parents by questionnaire. Children's food habits, appetite, physical activity, social conditions and parental heights and weights were examined using multiple regression analysis. Heredity and physical inactivity are best able to explain obesity in girls, while appetite and environmental conditions are most significant in boys. During early school years (ages 7-10) inactive children without siblings who are from lower class families are most likely to become obese. In the absence of all of the risk factors, obesity does not occur. A child with a high risk score still has a 50% chance of not becoming obese.