Humeda Ahmed
International University of Africa College of Medicine, Sudan
Title: Effect of high altitude on of childhood overweight and obesity in Saudi Arabia
Biography
Biography: Humeda Ahmed
Abstract
Childhood overweight and obesity is emerging as a serious health problem in developing countries worldwide. It has immediate and long term health risks. There is an increased risk of diseases such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus and respiratory and orthopedic problems as well as emotional stress associated with overweight and obesity during the growing years. The most significant long-term consequence is its persistence into adulthood along with its numerous associated health risk. In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, several studies addressed the problem of childhood overweight and obesity. However, few studies have dealt specifically with the Southwestern heights where environmental factors and the population genotypes differ widely from the other studied areas.
The study was a cross-sectional study of 145 Saudi children born and living permanently at high altitude (3100m) and 154 Saudi children born and living permanently at relatively low altitude (500m). For each child selected information regarding birth weight and breast feeding were taken from his or her file. Anthropometric measurements were then performed. Body mass index was calculated using the equation BMI=(Weight (kg)/Height (m2). Fat mass and fat free mass percentages were derived from triceps skinfold measurement. Resting pulse rate (beats/min), blood pressure, haemoglobin concentrations and haematocrit values were measured. Physical activity level was determined using the short form of international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ-SF).