Pediatric BMI increased during pandemic: Study
Written By : Isra Zaman
Medically Reviewed By : Dr. Kamal Kant Kohli
Published On 2022-10-10 04:00 GMT | Update On 2022-10-10 04:00 GMT
A study that tracked body masAmerican Academy of Pediatrics National Conference and Exhibitions index (BMI) two years prior to the pandemic and one year after the start of the pandemic in a primarily Medicaid pediatric population in Norfolk, Virginia, found a significant increase in BMI during that time.
Data was collected from 238 patients with an average age of 9.47 for females and 9.57 for males. Pediatric patients and their parents/guardians were given a questionnaire that examined six potential sources for lifestyle changes that could affect BMI, including fast food intake, time spent with electronic devices, and children's activity levels.
Dr. John Harrington, lead author said the study shows how difficult the lockdowns were on families as parents worried about their children being outside and around others, children missed out on physical education classes and team sports at school, and more time was spent scrolling social media and playing video games.
The authors note that this study provides an additional understanding of what factors negatively impact BMI in children. By determining the factors that are linked the most with an increase in BMI, this study can allow health care providers to develop ways to guide their patients toward healthier lifestyle choices in an increasingly technological world, the authors note.
Reference:
Examining the Effects of Covid-19 Lifestyle on Pediatric BMI, Rylie Mainville, MEETING 2022 American Academy of Pediatrics National Conference and Exhibition
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