Obesity among Banaba West National High School Adolescents

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Worldwide, obesity has been a problem. Among the Asian countries, studies revealed that though they had the lowest prevalence of overweight and obese, there were records of increase in recent years. In the Philippines, obesity had been a great problem as well, as there are tendencies of developing health complications later in life. Among adolescents, this could be a factor for being bullied. In Batangas City, street foods had become a great source of culturally accepted inexpensive, convenient and appealing food but unhealthy and potentially with higher health risks among adolescents. Hence, for these reasons why the researchers decided to work on this study. First, to identify the factors contributory to obesity among the high school adolescents in Banaba West National High School. Second, to determine the respondents' perceived consequences of obesity. Finally, to propose activities that may help them cope with these problems.

METHODS

This study made use of the descriptive quantitative research design. Participants The total population of thirty-eight (38) or 100% of the adolescent-respondents from Banaba West National High School participated in this study. An adapted questionnaire Dador, et.al. (2010) was used as its main instrument. Simple interviews were conducted for clarifications.

RESULTS

Results showed that there was a predominance of female obese students with the age range of 14-15, respectively. Of the seven (7) factors identified, “food preferences”, "food preparations" and "frequency of eating" appeared as the most common causes of their obesity. In terms of consequences, majority agreed that they were physically. From the interviews, it was noted that most of the respondents" easily become tired or felt fatigued" and "had sleep difficulties”. Despite these challenges, they tried overcoming this by ignoring them when being teased though hurt within.

DISCUSSIONS

Results implied that being obese does not only pose health problems. It may affect them psychologically, especially in terms of bullying. As suicidal attempts become alarming and adolescents at present have the tendency to easily give up, it is but necessary that proposed activities be given to alleviate the situation which may even lead to death. With the cited implications, health symposiums may be attended by the concerned. The school counselor may conduct at least a bi-annual seminar and counseling sessions for them to remain well-adjusted.