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Learning Objective 1: The learner will be able to describe the factors that influence health-related quality of life among obese children.
Learning Objective 2: The learner will be able to understand the importance of improving psychosocial health for obese children.
Methods: In March 2010, One hundred thirty two obese children aged 9 to 13 years were recruited from health camp held in D city, Korea. Obese children were defined as BMI above the 85th percentile for sex and age. Anthropometric measurements including height, weight, and %body fat were conducted and study participants were asked about lifestyle patterns and psychosocial characteristics; stress, self-esteem, depression, and health perceptions. HRQOL was assessed using PedsQLTM 4.0 generic core scales. Pearson correlation coefficient and multiple linear regression models were used to identify the relationships among healthy lifestyle, psychosocial characteristics, and HRQOL.
Results: Significant correlations with HRQOL included eating habits(r=.344, p=<.001) and the number of exercise(r=.266, p=.002) of the healthy lifestyle. Self-esteem(r=.660, p=<.001) and health perceptions(r=.188, p=.031) were positively correlated and physical stress(r=-.545, p=<.001), psychological stress(r=-.540, p=<.001), and depression(r=-.654, p=<.001) were negatively associated with HRQOL. The significant predictors of HRQOL among Korean obese children were self-esteem, depression, and physical stress and these variables accounted for 58.7% of the variance.
Conclusion: HRQOL in obese children was significantly associated with healthy lifestyle and psychosocial characteristics. Management programs for obese children should focus on the psychosocial aspect as well as healthy eating habits and exercise.
See more of: World Academy of Nursing Science: Oral Paper & Posters