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Unraveling Lifestyle Disease Vulnerabilities among Adolescents: A Comprehensive Comparative Analysis of Private and Government School Students in Rawalpindi and Islamabad

Ghulam Murtaza, Ali Hamza, Muhammad Usama, Azeema Noor, Mahnoor Naeem, Ammar Javed, S. Hashmi, Daud Arshad et al.

International Journal of Health Sciences, 2024

600 participants

Abstract

Purpose: The increasing prevalence of lifestyle diseases in adults necessitates a closer examination of risk factors that manifest during adolescence. This study addresses this imperative, aiming to comprehensively compare lifestyle disease risk factors among adolescents attending private and government schools, with a specific focus on the distinctive nuances present within diverse educational environments. The primary objective of this cross-sectional study is to provide a thorough exploration of lifestyle disease risk factors, thereby contributing to a more nuanced understanding of the complexities inherent in adolescent health within different school settings. The study's aim is to not only identify prevalent risk factors but also to highlight the variations that exist between students in private and government schools.

Methodology: The study engaged 600 adolescents from secondary schools in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, with 300 participants from each sector, employing purposive sampling for selection. Beyond the standard measurements of Body Mass Index (BMI), height, and weight, a comprehensive assessment encompassed dietary habits, physical activity levels, screen time, family history of lifestyle diseases, and active/passive smoking.

Findings: Noteworthy findings include a substantial 81% of overweight individuals affiliated with private schools, indicating a distinct prevalence in this demographic. Dietary disparities were evident, with private schools displaying a 60%…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 600 participants or records.

How the five levels of evidence work. The level is assigned automatically from the abstract and can be wrong, so check the paper.

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