State Requirements for School-Based BMI Screening
Author Information
Author(s): Linchey Jennifer, Madsen Kristine A.
Primary Institution: University of California, San Francisco
Hypothesis
Is there an association between pediatric obesity prevalence and state screening policies for BMI and body composition?
Conclusion
States that require BMI screening have a higher prevalence of adolescent obesity compared to those that do not.
Supporting Evidence
- 20 states require BMI or body composition screenings.
- Adolescent obesity was 16.7% in states requiring screening compared to 13.6% in those that do not.
- 9 states recommend BMI screening or fitness assessments.
- States requiring screening are more populous with higher school enrollments.
Takeaway
Some states check kids' weight to help them stay healthy, and those that do have more kids who are overweight.
Methodology
Researchers conducted telephone interviews with education department contacts in all 50 states and reviewed state content standards for physical education.
Potential Biases
Information on obesity prevalence came from parents' reports, which may be inaccurate.
Limitations
Contacts may not have provided accurate information, and state-level data may not reflect local practices.
Participant Demographics
Children aged 10 to 17 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
.001
Statistical Significance
p = .001
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