Keywords
BMI-for-age
waist circumference
dietary habits
screen time
physical activity
Abstract
Introduction. Childhood lifestyle habits and anthropometric status are markers of future cardiometabolic and musculoskeletal risk, but regional data from Bosnia and Herzegovina are limited. This study examined associations of excess body weight and waist circumference with lifestyle habits and foot posture findings among fifth- and seventh-grade schoolchildren from the Mostar region.
Methods. This cross-sectional study included 404 pupils attending routine school health examinations at the Mostar Health Center between September 2024 and May 2025. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and standardized anthropometry. Nutritional status was classified according to WHO BMI-for-age criteria. Multivariable regression models assessed factors associated with excess body weight, waist circumference, and foot posture abnormalities.
Results. Excess body weight was present in 113 of 401 children (28.2%). Screen time ≥3 h/day was not associated with excess body weight (OR=0.71; 95% CI: 0.39-1.29; p=0.261) or waist circumference (B=-0.89; 95% CI: -3.01 to 1.24; p=0.413). Daily breakfast consumption was associated with lower odds of excess body weight (OR=0.42; 95% CI: 0.26-0.69; p=0.001), as was female sex (OR=0.45; 95% CI: 0.27-0.73; p=0.002). Fruit consumption was not significant (p=0.052). Foot posture abnormalities were associated with low physical activity and urban residence, but not with excess body weight or waist circumference.
Conclusions. Excess body weight was common. Breakfast consumption showed the most consistent favorable association with anthropometric status, while foot posture findings were related to physical activity and residence. These findings support school health strategies addressing nutrition and movement-related behaviors.
References
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