FACTORS THAT PINPOINTS THE POTENTIAL DETERMINANTS OF OBESITY AMONGST SCHOOL GOING ADOLESCENTS: LITERATURE REVIEW

Aim: The World Health Organization (WHO) describes overweight and obesity as one of today’s most important public health problems and the problem of overweight and obesity is not confined only to developed countries but also prevalent in developing countries. The main objective of this study was to review the available literature to understand the relationship between obesity among children and adolescents and various factors incriminating for it. Methods: Databases were searched using the terms 'obesity' and 'child', 'adolescent', physical activity', 'risk factors, 'lifestyle', 'Dietary habits' and socioeconomic status(or variations on these terms). In order to limit the potential literature, the main focus was on the reviews, both general and relating to specific aspects of obesity. Results: The findings of the various studies are similar as the relationship among socioeconomic statusand adolescent obesity may result from number of underlying reasons, including unhealthy eating patterns, engaging in less physical activity, more sedentary behaviour. These factors tend to co-occur and are likely to contribute to increase the risk of obesity in children & adolescents. Conclusion: This review suggests that there are gaps in knowledge, pinpointing one or two main cause is difficult in the given data as potential determinants of obesity are intertwined and multiple. There is need for more reliable measures of dietary intake and activity levels and needs transformation in the lifestyle of adolescents through feasible ways.