Effect of Fast Food Consumption on Body Mass Index and Abdominal Obesity Among Adolescence

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Fast food refers to food products that are either pre-prepared or can be made in less time than ordinary cuisine. Fast food is a mass-produced food category supplied by restaurants, concession stands, and convenience shops that is geared for rapid and efficient preparation and delivery. As convenience and speed are prioritized, fast food is likely most associated with chain restaurants that often provide take-out and drive-through options. Fast-food items are frequently highly processed, precooked or frozen, and may include artificial preservatives, as well as excessive quantities of salt, cholesterol, saturated fats, refined carbohydrates, and sugars.

Objective: The aim of this study is to see how fast food consumption affects abdominal obesity and increased body mass index (BMI) in adolescents aged 10 to 19 years.

Method: Cross sectional study design was used in study. Probability convenient sampling technique was used. The sample size was 153 and was calculated using the following formula This study was completed in 6 months after approval of synopsis. Subjects included were adolescence of age 10-19 years. Data was collected and analyzed by SPSS version 25.0. Chi square test was applied to find the association.

Results: A 153 sample were concluded in the study out of which 90 (58.8%) persons were male and 63(41.2%) were female. out of 150 study population 47(30.7%) have abdominal obesity and 106(69.3%) have no abdominal obesity. By the study we see consumption of fast food with comparison between yes and no. Yes category shows underweight count 0.0% normal weight count is 0.0%, over weight count is 23.5% and obese weight count is 7.2% out of total 100%.No category shows underweight count 41.2% normal weight count is 28.1%, over weight count is 0.0% and obese weight count is 0.0% out of total 100%. comparison of WTH_ratio depending on the answer given by the population in yes and no for fast food consumption. The yes category shows abnormal obesity count is 30.7%, no obesity count is 0.0% out of total 100%. The no category shows abnormal obesity 0.0% and no obesity 69.3% out of 100%.

Conclusion: The study reported having no diseases related to obesity. The frequency of sugary drinks varied, as did the engagement in social eating, with a notable percentage not participating.