Abstract:

High rates of overweight and obesity in adolescents can influence physical, psychological and social changes. Objective: To describe the prevalence of overweight/obesity in adolescents and to identify the associated factors. Materials and Methods: A descriptive study was conducted with a sample of 406 adolescents aged 15 to 19 years old and of both sexes from high school public schools in the city of Macapá-AP. The prevalence of overweight/obesity was classified using the Body Mass Index. Information on the associated factors was collected through a questionnaire with data on sociodemographic and socioeconomic characteristics; eating habits and; behavioral factors. Results: The overall prevalence of overweight/obesity in adolescents of both sexes was 26.3%, being higher in boys. The factors associated with the prevalence of overweight/obesity in adolescents of both sexes were physical inactivity and, to stay for more than 3 hours in front of screens during the week and at the weekends. In addition, the prevalence of overweight/obesity was significantly associated in male adolescents residing in homes built in wood and in those who consume soft drinks and artificial juices, while studying in schools located in the center of the city and having income of up to 3 minimum wages associated with females. Conclusions: The prevalence of overweight/obesity was high. Sedentary lifestyle, low socioeconomic status, places with no basic infrastructure, and inadequate eating habits are more consistent with high rates of overweight/obesity.

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