Impact of Covid-19 Lockdown on the Unhealthy Dietary Habits and Physical Activity of Children and Adolescents Living in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Annals of Medical and Health Sciences Research(2021)
Abstract
Objectives: This study is determining the effect of the COVID-19 lockdown on dietary
habits and physical activity among children and adolescents living in the Kingdom
of Saudi Arabia (KSA).
Methods: Cross-sectional descriptive data were collected
from April–June 2020 through clinical interview questions via telecommunication
at a virtual pediatric endocrine clinic.
Results: More than half (58.4%) had appetite
changes. Moreover, 39.4% had difficulty maintaining a healthy, balanced diet during
the pandemic, including an increase in the consumption of simple carbohydrates,
fried foods, and soft drinks. Those with a higher socio-economic status had increased
snack food consumption (p<0.047). There was a significant decrease in physical activity
among 58.2% of the children/adolescents, 42% did not exercise, and 28.2% exercised
<30 minutes per day. Over one-third (35%) had a significant increase (4–8 hours) in
screen time. Girls reported more changes to their daily chores than did boys (p<0.036).
Online learning affected boys’ activity levels more so than girls’ (p<0.011).
Conclusion: This study confirmed the negative impact of COVID-19 lockdown on weight, dietary
habits among children/adolescents living in the KSA, highlighting possible adverse
health outcomes in the future.
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Key words
unhealthy dietary habits,physical activity,adolescents,saudi arabia
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