Differences in the Prevalence of Overweight Between 10-12-Year-old South Asian and Non-South Asian Children in Toronto, Ontario: Findings from Project BEAT

Objective The objective of this study is to assess the prevalence of overweight among 10-12-year-old South Asian children in comparison to non-South Asian children. Methods This cross-sectional study obtained data from 16 schools in Toronto, Ontario. The analysis included 734 children (260 South Asian and 475 non-South Asian) aged 10-12 years. Height and weight were measured, and body mass index (BMI; kg/m(2)) was calculated according to age-and sex-specific cut points established by the International Obesity Task Force (IOTF). Results The prevalence of overweight was significantly higher among South Asian children when compared to non-South Asian children (36.9 vs. 23.0 %; p<0.001). Unadjusted, South Asian children exhibited increased odds for being overweight (OR=1.96; CI=1.41-2.73; p<0.001) compared to non-South Asian children and persisted after the adjustment for socio-demographic covariates but did not remain significant after the inclusion of physical activity and sedentary behaviour variables. The adjusted odds for being overweight was significantly higher among South Asian boys (but not girls) compared to their non-South Asian counterparts (OR= 2.45; CI=1.32-4.55; p<0.0001). Conclusions The prevalence of overweight differs by ethnic group and gender. South Asian boys have increased odds of being overweight compared to non-South Asian boys. Children of South Asian origin should receive focused attention in public health initiatives to reduce the risk of becoming overweight and the associated metabolic consequences.