The Diet of Schoolchildren Between Theory and Reality

Abstract

The health state of school population in Romania, represents a desideratum of the current period. The purpose of the study hereof was to point out the overweight cases among students. The research was carried out on a sample of 50 students (30 girls and 20 boys), aged between 9 and 12. We have applied the following measurements: bodyweight assessment, measuring the abdominal girth and a food intake questionnaire. After interpreting the results, we have concluded as follows: 52% are included in the category moderate underweight, 28% are included in the category normal weight, while 20% in the category overweight. In what concerns waist circumference, 26% record values between 50- 59 cm., 50%: 60-69 cm., 16%: 70-79 cm. and 8%: 80-89 cm. Findings highlight that eating issues are common among children. As a general conclusion, we wish to underline the importance of identifying obesity at school age and of implementing prevention measures.