A recent study by AIIMS has revealed alarming health trends among school children in Delhi. The increasing consumption of fast food and declining physical activity among students are contributing to a significant rise in obesity. Post-COVID, there has also been a spike in cardio-metabolic risks among children and adolescents. The drop in food quality and safety has further worsened the situation.
One-third of Children Found to Have Dyslipidemia
The study, conducted across five schools in Delhi, included 3,888 children aged 6 to 19 years. It highlighted that cardio-metabolic issues are now appearing at a younger age and could become more serious as children grow into adulthood. One of the most striking findings was that one-third of the children were found to be suffering from dyslipidemia – a condition marked by abnormal levels of lipids in the blood. Additionally, 15.02% of adolescents had blood sugar levels over 100 mg/dL, indicating a pre-diabetic condition.
Higher Obesity Rates in Private School Students
The study found that children studying in private schools showed significantly higher rates of obesity and high blood sugar compared to those in government schools. In private schools, 24.02% of students were overweight and 22.70% were obese. In contrast, only 7.63% of government school students were overweight and 4.48% were obese. Waist obesity was also more prevalent in private schools at 16.77%, compared to just 1.83% in government schools.
Similar Rates of High Blood Pressure in Both School Types
Interestingly, the prevalence of hypertension was almost equal in both school types — 7.44% in government schools and 7.27% in private schools — showing that high blood pressure affects students regardless of their school background.
How the Study Was Conducted
AIIMS researchers carried out the study in three government and two private schools. It involved 1,985 students from government schools and 1,903 from private schools. Younger children underwent physical check-ups, while those aged 10 to 19 were tested for blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and other health markers.
Doctors’ Recommendations: Avoid Fast Food, Increase Physical Activity
Doctors involved in the study have attributed the rising health issues among children to poor lifestyle choices. They are now raising awareness among parents and children about these health concerns. They are urging families to promote physical activity, reduce fast food intake, and adopt a healthier lifestyle to help children stay fit and prevent future complications.
