The Prevalence of Overweight and Underweight as a Diet-related Health Problem Among Students of Excellence Bridge Private School in Tina Community of Jos North Local Government
Chapter One
Objectives of the Study
The research objectives are formulated as follows:
- To assess the prevalence of overweight and underweight among students of Excellence Bridge Private School in the Tina community.
- To identify the factors contributing to the diet-related health problems among the students.
- To propose evidence-based interventions to mitigate the prevalence of overweight and underweight in the school.
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
Conceptual Review
Prevalence of Overweight and Underweight
The prevalence of overweight and underweight among school-aged populations is a critical facet of public health, necessitating a nuanced understanding of these terms and their implications. In defining overweight, Ng et al. (2022) describe it as a condition characterized by excess body weight, typically in the form of adipose tissue. This excess weight may be quantified using the Body Mass Index (BMI), where individuals with a BMI above a certain threshold are classified as overweight. On the contrary, underweight is generally defined as having a BMI below the recommended range for a healthy weight, indicative of insufficient body mass relative to height. These definitions set the foundation for comprehending the dual challenges posed by both excessive and inadequate weight among students.
The epidemiology of overweight and underweight in the school-aged population is a multifaceted concern with profound implications for long-term health. Drawing from the global analysis conducted by Ng et al. (2022), the prevalence rates of overweight and obesity have witnessed a concerning rise over the past decades, affecting children and adolescents across various regions. Simultaneously, Biadgilign et al. (2017) emphasize the need for a comprehensive understanding of the epidemiology of obesity and overweight, specifically in sub-Saharan Africa. This regional focus is crucial for contextualizing the prevalence rates within the Tina community, Jos North Local Government, where the nuances of lifestyle, socio-economic factors, and cultural elements may contribute to distinct patterns.
In the school-aged population, the epidemiological landscape of overweight and underweight is influenced by a myriad of factors, ranging from dietary habits to socio-economic status. Must and McKeown’s (2018) exploration of the disease burden associated with overweight and obesity underscores the pervasive impact of these conditions on overall health. Understanding the prevalence within the school context is imperative, as it provides insights into the potential health challenges that students at Excellence Bridge Private School in the Tina community might be facing. This epidemiological perspective serves as a foundation for the subsequent exploration of specific health challenges and the formulation of targeted interventions to address the prevalence of overweight and underweight among students.
Diet-Related Health Problems Among Students
The link between nutrition and academic performance is a pivotal aspect of students’ overall well-being, necessitating an exploration of the intricate relationship between dietary habits and scholastic achievement. Adedoyin et al. (2019) conducted a study examining the prevalence of obesity among adult residents in Ile-Ife, Nigeria. This study not only underscores the broader concerns related to nutrition but also sets the stage for understanding how dietary factors might impact students in the Tina community. A plethora of evidence, as suggested by Adedoyin et al. (2019), indicates that nutrition plays a fundamental role in cognitive function and academic outcomes. Diets rich in essential nutrients contribute to improved concentration, memory, and overall cognitive performance, forming a crucial link between nutrition and academic success.
The impact of diet on physical health is equally paramount, as the nutritional choices made during the formative years of education can significantly influence students’ overall health and well-being. Ahaneku et al. (2022) explored lipid patterns, alcohol intake, and BMI among adult Nigerians in a sub-urban slum in Enugu, Nigeria. While the focus is on adults, the insights garnered about the interplay between dietary factors and body mass are pertinent to understanding the potential consequences for students. Unhealthy dietary habits, characterized by excessive consumption of high-calorie, low-nutrient foods, can contribute to the development of various health issues, including obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and other metabolic disorders. Martín-Timón et al.’s (2014) study, emphasizing the bidirectional relationship between type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, further underscores the importance of dietary interventions for both academic and physical health outcomes.
Within the context of Excellence Bridge Private School in the Tina community, comprehending the impact of diet-related health problems on students is crucial. A holistic perspective that considers both academic performance and physical health provides a foundation for devising interventions tailored to the unique needs of the students in this specific educational setting. As the prevalence of overweight and underweight is intrinsically linked to dietary choices, understanding these connections is instrumental in formulating targeted programs that address the multifaceted challenges posed by diet-related health issues among students.
Private School Context in Tina Community
Exploring the private school context in Tina’s community provides a nuanced understanding of the educational landscape and its implications for student health. Ahaneku et al. (2022), in their investigation of lipid patterns, alcohol intake, and BMI among adult Nigerians in a sub-urban slum in Enugu, Nigeria, offer insights into the socio-economic factors that often intersect with health outcomes. While their study focuses on adults, the socio-economic dimensions explored can be extrapolated to the private school context in Tina’s community. Private schools are characterized by distinct features, including smaller class sizes, often more affluent student populations, and different educational philosophies compared to public schools. Understanding these characteristics is crucial for comprehending the context within which students at Excellence Bridge Private School navigate their academic journey.
Socio-economic factors wield considerable influence over student health outcomes, shaping dietary habits, access to healthcare, and overall well-being. The study by Umar et al. (2016) comparing healthcare expenditures between obese and non-obese patients in North-west Nigeria sheds light on the economic dimensions of health. While the focus is on healthcare, the economic disparities highlighted are pertinent to understanding how socio-economic factors may influence student health in the private school setting. The socio-economic status of families in Tina’s community could impact students’ access to nutritious meals, extracurricular activities, and healthcare resources. Acknowledging these factors is imperative for devising targeted interventions that account for the diverse socio-economic backgrounds within the private school context.
Within Excellence Bridge Private School, the socio-economic landscape of Tina’s community contributes to the unique challenges students may face regarding their health. By delineating the characteristics of private schools in this local context and dissecting the socio-economic factors influencing student health, this section of the literature review provides a foundation for the subsequent exploration of health promotion strategies tailored to address the specific needs of students in Excellence Bridge Private School.
CHAPTER THREE
METHODOLOGY
Introduction
This chapter outlines the methodology employed to achieve the objectives of the study, drawing on a diverse range of research methods. The selection of an appropriate research design and methodology is crucial to ensuring the reliability and validity of the study’s findings.
Research Design
The research design selected for this study is a quantitative survey design, a methodological approach extensively discussed by Saunders et al. (2016). This design is characterized by the systematic collection and analysis of numerical data from a considerable number of respondents. The quantitative survey design is deemed appropriate for investigating the prevalence of overweight and underweight among students in Excellence Bridge Private School. According to Saunders et al. (2016), this design enables a structured and systematic approach to data collection, ensuring that information is gathered in a standardized manner, thereby providing a solid foundation for analysis.
The rationale behind opting for a quantitative survey design is rooted in the necessity for statistical data, as highlighted by Anderson et al. (2020). This approach ensures that the study can generate robust statistical findings, facilitating the identification of patterns and trends related to diet-related health problems among students. The prevalence of overweight and underweight is a complex issue, and employing a quantitative survey design allows for the collection of numerical data that can be subjected to statistical analysis. This, in turn, enables a comprehensive overview of the health status of students in Excellence Bridge Private School about their dietary habits, contributing to a deeper understanding of the factors influencing these health outcomes.
The structured nature of surveys, as emphasized by Saunders et al. (2016), plays a pivotal role in ensuring standardized data collection. This standardization is crucial for maintaining consistency in responses across a large sample, making the subsequent analysis more straightforward. By employing a quantitative survey design, the study aims to gather precise and comparable data, laying the groundwork for a robust analysis of the research questions related to the prevalence of overweight and underweight among students in Excellence Bridge Private School.
Population of the Study
The target population for this study comprises students at Excellence Bridge Private School in the Tina community. The justification for selecting this specific population is rooted in the school’s unique characteristics and its representation of the broader student demographic in the Tina community. With a focus on the prevalence of overweight and underweight, the study aims to capture a comprehensive picture of the health status of students within this particular educational setting. The choice of this population aligns with the research objective of understanding the diet-related health problems specific to students at Excellence Bridge Private School, providing insights that can inform targeted interventions for this distinct group (Saunders et al., 2019).
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION
Data Presentation
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary of Findings
The research conducted at Excellence Bridge Private School in Tina community aimed to comprehensively explore the prevalence of overweight and underweight among students and the contributing factors to diet-related health problems. The study delved into the students’ perspectives on health, their awareness of weight-related issues, and their receptiveness to various interventions. The findings from the survey and statistical analyses provide valuable insights into the current state of students’ health, the factors influencing it, and potential strategies for improvement.
Prevalence of Overweight and Underweight: The study revealed that a considerable percentage of students in Excellence Bridge Private School are aware of the prevalence of overweight and underweight issues among their peers. An overwhelming majority (67.3%) either strongly agreed or agreed with this awareness. This indicates a heightened consciousness among students regarding weight-related concerns within the school community. Such awareness is a crucial first step in addressing health issues, as it sets the stage for informed decision-making and intervention planning.
In terms of the school’s role in health promotion, the findings suggest strong support for initiatives such as providing more information and awareness campaigns regarding healthy weight management. About 68.3% of respondents either strongly agreed or agreed with this statement, indicating a favourable disposition toward proactive health-promoting measures within the school. This finding underscores the potential effectiveness of school-led campaigns in shaping students’ attitudes and behaviours toward healthier living.
Factors Contributing to Diet-Related Health Problems: Several factors were explored as potential contributors to diet-related health problems among students. Peer influence emerged as a significant factor, with approximately 76% either strongly agreeing or agreeing that peer influence significantly affects students’ food choices and eating habits. This underscores the importance of social dynamics in shaping dietary behaviours among students. Additionally, limited access to nutritious food options in the school cafeteria was identified as a perceived challenge, with 70.2% either strongly agreeing or agreeing. This highlights an area for improvement in the school’s food offerings to better support students’ nutritional needs.
Stress and academic pressure were also considered, with a majority (72.1%) either strongly agreeing or agreeing that these factors negatively impact students’ eating patterns. This finding emphasizes the interconnectedness of mental well-being and dietary habits, suggesting that interventions addressing stress and academic pressure could positively influence students’ overall health.
Interventions and Solutions: The research assessed students’ perspectives on potential interventions to address the prevalence of overweight and underweight. There was strong support for implementing nutrition education programs in the curriculum, with 84.6% either strongly agreeing or agreeing. This indicates a recognition among students of the educational value in fostering healthier dietary habits. Furthermore, a substantial percentage (78%) either strongly agreed or agreed that the school should offer physical activity initiatives to promote healthy weight management. This finding highlights the importance students place on incorporating physical activity into their daily routines for overall well-being.
Engaging parents in health promotion activities was endorsed by a majority (81.7%) of students, suggesting that involving parents could enhance the effectiveness of health interventions. This aligns with the idea that a collaborative approach between schools and parents is crucial for comprehensive health promotion.
Implications and Recommendations: The findings from this study provide a foundation for informed decision-making and targeted interventions at Excellence Bridge Private School. The awareness among students about weight-related issues, their receptiveness to health-promoting initiatives, and the identified factors contributing to diet-related health problems collectively offer valuable insights for school administrators, educators, and policymakers.
To address the prevalence of overweight and underweight, the school can consider implementing tailored nutrition education programs integrated into the curriculum. This could enhance students’ knowledge of healthy eating habits and empower them to make informed choices. Additionally, initiatives like awareness campaigns, improved cafeteria options, and physical activity programs should be explored to create a holistic approach to health promotion within the school.
Collaboration with parents is a key recommendation for sustaining and reinforcing health-promoting efforts. Involving parents in awareness campaigns, workshops, and activities related to nutrition and well-being can create a supportive environment both at home and in school. Furthermore, addressing stress and academic pressure through counseling services and mental health programs can contribute to a more holistic approach to student well-being.
Conclusion
The hypotheses tested in this study aimed to scrutinize the relationships between dietary habits, socio-economic factors, and the effectiveness of interventions in mitigating the prevalence of overweight and underweight among students at Excellence Bridge Private School. The statistical analyses provided meaningful insights into these aspects.
Firstly, the results of the one-sample t-tests on the hypotheses revealed that there is a significant relationship between dietary habits and the prevalence of overweight and underweight among students. The computed t-statistic of 73.00 (p < 0.05) indicated a substantial departure from the assumed mean of 0, leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis. This underscores the importance of dietary habits in influencing weight-related issues among students.
Secondly, socio-economic factors were found to significantly contribute to diet-related health problems among students. With a computed t-statistic of 66.00 (p < 0.05), the null hypothesis asserting no significant contribution was rejected. This emphasizes the need to consider socio-economic factors when addressing health challenges among students, recognizing the impact of economic variables on dietary choices and health outcomes.
Lastly, the study revealed that evidence-based interventions can indeed lead to a reduction in the prevalence of overweight and underweight among students. The computed t-statistic of 89.75 (p < 0.05) supported the alternative hypothesis, emphasizing the effectiveness of targeted interventions in promoting healthier weight outcomes. This finding reinforces the importance of implementing evidence-based strategies and programs to address health disparities among students.
In conclusion, the study’s findings underscore the significance of dietary habits and socio-economic factors in influencing weight-related issues among students. Moreover, they affirm the efficacy of evidence-based interventions in mitigating the prevalence of overweight and underweight. These conclusions contribute valuable knowledge to the ongoing discourse on student health, providing a basis for informed decision-making and the development of targeted interventions within educational settings.
Recommendations
The following recommendations were proposed for this study:
- Implement Comprehensive Nutrition Education Programs: Develop and integrate robust nutrition education programs into the school curriculum. These programs should focus on promoting healthy eating habits, understanding nutritional values, and fostering a positive relationship with food among students. Inclusion of practical components, such as cooking classes and interactive sessions, can enhance the effectiveness of these programs.
- Enhance Access to Nutritious Food Options: Collaborate with food service providers to ensure the availability of a diverse range of nutritious food options in the school cafeteria. This includes incorporating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into daily meal offerings. Implementing a system to regularly assess and improve the nutritional quality of available food will contribute to healthier eating habits among students.
- Promote Physical Activity Initiatives: Establish and support physical activity initiatives within the school, such as sports programs, fitness classes, and recreational activities. Encourage student participation in these activities to promote regular exercise and overall well-being. Additionally, consider creating outdoor spaces that facilitate physical activity, contributing to a holistic approach to student health.
- Regular Health Assessments and Monitoring: Implement routine health assessments to monitor students’ weight status and overall health. Collaborate with healthcare professionals to conduct regular check-ups and screenings. This proactive approach can identify potential health issues early on, allowing for timely interventions and support for students with specific health needs.
- Parental Involvement in Health Promotion: Engage parents in health promotion activities by organizing workshops, seminars, and informational sessions. Provide resources and guidance on fostering a healthy home environment, including tips on nutrition, physical activity, and addressing weight-related concerns. Parental involvement is crucial for reinforcing healthy habits beyond the school setting.
- Stress Management and Academic Support: Develop strategies to address stress and academic pressures among students. Implement stress management programs, create a supportive academic environment, and encourage healthy coping mechanisms. These initiatives can positively impact students’ eating patterns and contribute to their overall mental and physical well-being.
- Policy Development and Implementation: Establish clear and comprehensive school policies related to student health, nutrition, and physical activity. Ensure that these policies align with national and local guidelines. Regularly review and update policies to address emerging health challenges and incorporate best practices in promoting a healthy school environment.
- Continuous Monitoring and Evaluation: Implement a robust system for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of health promotion initiatives. Regularly collect data on student health outcomes, dietary habits, and participation in health programs. Use this information to make data-driven adjustments and improvements, ensuring the sustainability and success of the implemented interventions.
Contribution to Knowledge
The findings of this research contribute significantly to the existing body of knowledge by shedding light on the nuanced prevalence of overweight and underweight issues among students in private schools, specifically within the Tina community. The study delves into the local context of Excellence Bridge Private School, offering a unique perspective on the multifaceted challenges faced by students. This micro-level analysis adds granularity to the broader understanding of diet-related health problems among adolescents, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions in diverse educational settings.
Furthermore, the research extends the knowledge base by identifying specific factors contributing to diet-related health problems among students in a private school environment. By exploring the intricate interplay of socioeconomic factors, academic pressures, and lifestyle choices, the study provides insights into the contextual determinants that influence student health. This depth of understanding is crucial for educators, parents, and policymakers in developing tailored strategies that address the root causes of diet-related health issues, moving beyond generic interventions.
The study’s contribution also lies in proposing evidence-based interventions for mitigating the prevalence of overweight and underweight among students. By recommending comprehensive nutrition education programs, promoting physical activity initiatives, and enhancing access to nutritious food options, the research provides actionable insights for schools and policymakers. These proposed interventions align with best practices in health promotion and contribute valuable knowledge on effective strategies for fostering healthier lifestyles among students.
Finally, the research contributes to the methodological domain by employing a quantitative survey design and statistical analysis, utilizing tools such as the one-sample t-test. This methodological rigor enhances the reliability and validity of the study, setting a precedent for future research endeavors in similar contexts. The integration of diverse sources, theories, and empirical studies further enriches the scholarly landscape, making this research a valuable addition to the academic discourse on student health and well-being.
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