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Parental knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors about nutrition and physical activity in relation to BMI of children with developmental disability
Thesis

Parental knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors about nutrition and physical activity in relation to BMI of children with developmental disability

Stella-Maria U. Ogwu
Master of Public Health (M.P.H.), Drexel University
May 2012
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/etd-4015
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Ogwu_Stella-Maria_2012950.33 kB
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Ogwu_Stella-Maria_2012_Suppl1311.20 kB
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Abstract

Body-Mass Index Children Parents Developmental Disabilities Public Health
Background: The prevalence of childhood obesity is rising and has become a major public health issue in the United States. Several studies have reported that children with disabilities are at greater risk of developing nutrition problems, including underweight, overweight, and obesity compared to children without disabilities. However, very little research about the lifestyle of children with Developmental Disability (DD) has been conducted. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes and behaviors about nutrition and physical activity of parents with children with DD and to investigate the relationship between these variables and the Body Mass Index (BMI) of the children. Method: A survey was used to collect information on knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors about nutrition and physical activity from parents (n = 164) aged 20-73 of children with DD living in Central Pennsylvania. Results: Approximately 24% of the children in the study were overweight or obese. Children who reportedly consumed sodas, fruit and sports drinks three or more times a day had significantly higher BMI (25.3 ± 5.37) compared to children who consumed these drinks once a week or less (19.0 ± 5.26), (p = 0.01). Children who participated frequently in team sports, running, dancing, and outdoor playing had significantly lower BMI compared to those did not. Conclusion: Parents play an important role in the lifestyle of children with DD. Interventions should focus on providing parents with information about how to assist their children in maintaining healthy body weight.

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