Overweight and BMI Changes in American Indian Schoolchildren
Author Information
Author(s): Smith Derek T, Bartee R. Todd, Dorozynski Christopher M, Carr Lucas J
Primary Institution: University of Wyoming
Hypothesis
Does weight gain during out-of-school periods contribute to the prevalence of overweight and obesity among American Indian schoolchildren?
Conclusion
The prevalence of overweight among American Indian schoolchildren is higher than national estimates, with significant increases in BMI during out-of-school periods, particularly among fifth-grade girls.
Supporting Evidence
- 62.0% of boys and 56.6% of girls were at or above the 85th BMI percentile.
- Significant increases in BMI were observed among fifth-grade girls over holiday breaks.
- BMI increased significantly during summer recess for third-grade girls and fourth-grade boys.
Takeaway
This study found that many American Indian schoolchildren are overweight, and they tend to gain weight during school breaks, especially girls in fifth grade.
Methodology
Repeated cross-sectional BMI samples were collected from schoolchildren at the beginning of two school years, during holiday breaks, and summer recess.
Potential Biases
Potential underreporting of overweight prevalence and lack of attention to out-of-school periods may introduce bias.
Limitations
The study only provides a snapshot of weight changes during specific out-of-school periods and does not track long-term weight retention.
Participant Demographics
Participants were Northern Arapaho and Eastern Shoshone schoolchildren in grades 3-8.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P < .001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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