Prevalence and Associated Factors of Overweight and Obesity among Adolescent Girls in Isfahan, Iran: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Overweight and obesity in adolescents are rising public health concerns, particularly in developing countries. This study examined the prevalence and key correlates of overweight/obesity among 12–13-year-old girls in Isfahan, Iran, with emphasis on parental body mass index (BMI), eating speed, dietary patterns, sleep duration, and physical activity. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1,140 adolescent girls selected through stratified cluster sampling from 12 middle schools in Isfahan. Data were collected through anthropometric measurements (BMI-for-age) and a structured questionnaire that assessed demographics, dietary habits, physical activity, sleep patterns, and parental BMI. Results: Of the participants, 28.25% were overweight and 8.68% were obese. Parental BMI showed a strong association: 44.2% of girls with overweight and 14.8% with obese parents were also overweight or obese (P<0.001). Obesity was more common among those consuming fast food over three times weekly (23.1% vs. 4.9%, P<0.001), sleeping less than 7 hours (11.7%, P<0.001), and eating quickly (21.4% vs. 4.1%, P<0.001). Regression analysis identified fast eating and low parental education as independent predictors. Conclusions: Adolescent obesity is shaped by parental weight, eating behaviors, diet quality, and sleep habits. Family-oriented strategies addressing these factors, combined with school-based health programs, may help reduce prevalence. Future research should explore causal pathways and broader environmental influences.