Nutritional and Lifestyle Factors Determining the Problem of Overweight and Obesity Among Teenagers and Youth During the COVID-19 Pandemic – A Comparative Survey Study Among Poles and Belarusians

• DOI: 10.2478/phr-2022-0022
• Publication Date: 2023-12-19T23:18:48Z
• Authors: Halina Piecewicz-...; Barbara Nieradko-...; Gabriela Ręka; Emilia Nowak; Marcela Maksymowicz; Piotr Machowiec; Marina Surmach; Natalya Khilmonchik; Maryna Valynets
• Keywords: Pandemic

Abstract Introduction: The prevalence of obesity is increasing worldwide, especially among youth. main cause in young people a combination excessive caloric intake and reduced physical activity. In addition to individual dietary activity behaviors, genetic predisposition, socioeconomic environmental factors, comorbidities may contribute obesity. Aim: study aims examine compare the factors determining food preferences habits as well occurrence overweight teenagers youth Poland Belarus. Material methods: An anonymous questionnaire consisting 58 questions based on Eating Behavior Questionnaire (QEB) was used. Responses were received from 700 690 Belarus, some whom rejected. data collected May June 2021 analyzed Statistica program (statistically significant results at p<0.05). research financed by grant Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange. Results: group divided into four groups terms age nationality: Poles <20 years old (428 people), Belarusians (222 20-29 (210 (295 ). correct BMI had 66.7%, 74.3%, 70.7%, 71.2% respondents, respectively (p=0.057; p=0.888). both groups, Mann-Whitney U test, there are differences number meals per day (p<0.001) - eat 4 or 5 more often, 3. chi-square showed statistical difference question about eating breakfast every often than Belarusians. test no sleep duration between respondents countries (p=0.453; p=0.905). Conclusions: indicate strong need implement educational programs raise awareness healthy eating. Obesity, skipping breakfast, too few during day, their incorrect composition direction pro-health policy, which will be conducive making right choices