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Nutritional status of primary school children, Sepang district, Selangor 2004

Lekhraj Rampal, G.R., Teh, W.M., Tan, P.H.

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2006;2(1):11-23.
MyJurnal

Objectives: This study was carried out to determine the nutritional status of primary
school children aged 6 to 11 years in Sepang District and to compare the results with a
similar study carried out in 1999. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in
Sepang District using stratified random cluster sampling technique. A pre-tested, structured
questionnaire was used to collect the data. Weight was recorded using a digital bathroom
scale TANITA model HD-309 and height was measured by using a SECA Body meter
Model 208. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated as weight in kilograms divided by the
square of height in meters. Classifications of the nutritional status of respondents was
based on WHO classification 1983 and 1995. Data were analysed using SPSS. Results:
The overall mean BMI for the 1,910 respondents was 16.8 (95% CI= 16.67 - 16.99;
SE=0.08). The median BMI was 15 .7 ranging from 9.51 to 36.75 kg/m2. The majority
(84.4%) had normal weight-for-age status, 7.6% respondents had weight-for-age status
below -2 SD of the NCHS-WHO median and 8.0% had weight-for-age status above +2 SD
of the NCHS-WHO median. The prevalence of underweight and overweight was significantly
higher in the males compared to the females (p< 0.05). There was a significant association
between underweight and ethnicity (p< 0.05). The majority (90.3%) had normal heightfor-
age status, 8.8% had height-for-age below - 2 SD of the NCHS-WHO standard median
and 0.9% had height-for-age above 2 SD from the NCHS median. The prevalence of
stunting was significantly higher in the male (10.3%) as compared to 7.4% in the females
(X2 = 5.11, P = 0.02). The majority (81.4%) of the respondents were within the normal
weight-for-height, 3.4% were wasted (weight-for-height was below - 2 SD of the NCHSWHO
median) and 15.2% of the respondents were obese (weight-for-height that is more
than +2 SD of the NCHS-WHO median). The prevalence of wasting was higher in the
females (4.1 %) compared to males (2.8%). The prevalence of obesity was slightly higher
in the males (15.4%) compared to females (14.9%). Conclusion: The overall nutritional
status of primary schools children is good. However, there still exists pockets of population
in Sepang where chronic and acute forms of undernutrition persist in these children.

Matched MeSH terms: Overweight
Fulltext Prevalence of obesity, lipid and glucose abnormalities in outpatients prescribed clozapine in University Malaya Medical Center, Kuala Lumpur

Sharmilla, T., Ahmad, H.S., Jambunathan, S.T.

Malaysian Journal of Psychiatry, 2008;17(2):1-10.
MyJurnal

Objective: The objectives of this study were to asses body mass index, fasting blood sugar , serum cholesterol levels and prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus among outpatients attending the Clozapine clinic at University Malaya Medical Center. Method: 36 patients had their height and weight taken at the start of the study. Their BMI (body mass index) was calculated. Fasting blood sugar, (FBS) and Fasting Serum Lipid (FSL) were performed. Result: The mean body mass index was 24.63. The prevalence of obesity was 13.89%. The prevalence of overweight was 27.8 % and the prevalence of underweight was 5.55%. The prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus was 2.78 %. Serum triglyceride levels appear to be elevated in those receiving Clozapine.Conclusion: It appears that Clozapine may predispose one to obesity. From our study we cannot conclude if Clozapine causes Diabetes Mellitus. However treatment with Clozapine may be associated with elevated levels of serum triglycerides.

Study site: Clozapine clinic at University Malaya Medical Center

Matched MeSH terms: Overweight
Fulltext Prevalence of obesity and associated factors among secondary school students in Slemani City Kurdistan Region, Iraq

Muhammad Saeed Qadir, Rampal, Lekhraj, Sherina Mohd Sidik, Salmiah Md Said, Zhian Salah Ramzi

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2014;10(2):27-38.
MyJurnal

Obesity is a well-established risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The objective of
the study was to determine the prevalence of obesity and factors associated among secondary school students aged between 13 to 17 years at Slemani City Centre, Iraq. Methodology: A cross sectional study design was used. The calculated sample size was 1656. Probability proportional to size sampling technique was used to select the sample. A validated pretested questionnaire was used to collect the data. Weight and height were also taken. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21. Chi-square test was used to determine an association between two categorical variables. Independent t-test was used to compare two means. Multiple logistic regression was used to determine the predictors for obesity. Results: The response rate was 92.54% and the overall mean age of the 1588 respondents was 15.42 (95% CI = 15.35, 15.49) years. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 20.6% and 11.3% respectively. Variables significantly associated with overweight and obesity (age, monthly family income, education level of parents, body part satisfaction and body size perception) were entered into the logistic regression model. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that the predictors for overweight and obesity were age, monthly family income, body part dissatisfaction and body size perception. Conclusion: The prevalence of overweight and obesity is high (20.6% and 11.3% respectively). The predictors of obesity among secondary school students aged between 13 to 17 years old at Slemani City Centre Kurdistan Region, Iraq were age, family income and body image dissatisfaction.

Matched MeSH terms: Overweight
Fulltext An evaluation of eating behavior, psychosocial status and body mass index among adolescents in Malaysia

Zuraida, A.S., Mohammad Basri, R., Ho, C.E.

Malaysian Journal of Psychiatry, 2013;22(2):10-18.
MyJurnal

Objective: This study is an attempt to produce an abbreviated Malay version of Weight and Lifestyle Inventory (MWALI), as well as to examine the psychometric properties of the eating behavior which formed part of MWALI. Methods: The MWALI was translated ‘forward–backward’ from English to Malay and then administered to 135 adolescents. The factor construct of the 24-item eating behavior and the relationships between factor scores and demographic profile, dysphoria, global self-esteem and body mass index (BMI) were examined. Results: The exploratory factor analysis yielded five factors: Negative Emotion, Poor Impulse Control, Social Cues, Snacking and Early Meals in relation to over-eating. All the factors were significantly and positively correlated with BMI. Internal consistency and test-retest reliability of the eating behavior were satisfactory. Conclusion: MWALI is appropriate for assessing eating behavior among overweight and obese adolescents in the primary care setting in Malaysia.

Matched MeSH terms: Overweight
Fulltext Nutritional status and nutritional knowledge of Malay pregnant women in selected private hospitals in Klang Valley

Zahara Abdul Manaf, Nuruljannah Johari, Lee, Yee Mei, Ng, Sim Yee, Chua, Kai Yin, Loke, Wai Teng

Jurnal Sains Kesihatan Malaysia, 2014;12(2):53-62.
MyJurnal

Adequate nutrition is important for mothers and their offspring during and after birth. This cross sectional study was conducted to determine nutritional status and nutritional knowledge of pregnant women from two selected private hospitals in Klang Valley, Malaysia. A total of 236 Malay pregnant women aged between 20 to 45 years old (mean age 31+5 years) were recruited through convenient sampling method. Socio-demographic data, nutritional knowledge and a 24-hours diet recall were obtained through a self-administered questionnaire. Anthropometric and haemoglobin data were obtained from the antenatal records in the respective hospitals. The percentages of participants who were underweight, normal, overweight and obese before pregnancy were 12.7%, 55.1%, 25.0% and 7.2% respectively. Among those who were obese before pregnancy, a total of 59.7% had inadequate weight gain, 24.6% gained adequate weight and 15.7% gained excessive gestational weight. About 33.5% of subjects were anaemic (Hb < 11.0g/dL). The mean daily energy intake of the participants was 1748 ± 526 kcal which was 76% of RNI. Calcium (73% of RNI), folic acid (36% of RNI), niacin (89% of RNI) and vitamin D (40% of RNI). The nutritional knowledge level of subjects was moderate (51.9 ± 13.8%). Lower monthly household income (p < 0.001), educational level (p < 0.001) and gestational stage (p < 0.05) of participants were associated with a lower nutritional knowledge level. Nutritional knowledge score was positively correlated with gestational weight gain (r = 0.166, p < 0.05) and haemoglobin level (r = 0.200, p < 0.05). Subjects who claimed practising food taboos had higher nutritional knowledge score (54.9 ± 12.5%) than those who did not (49.9 ± 14.4%)(p < 0.05). A comprehensive nutrition education should be integrated in the antenatal classes to improve nutritional status of pregnant women.

Matched MeSH terms: Overweight
Fulltext Impact of Self-Perception of Obesity on Leisure Time Physical Activity (LTPA) among medical students

Padmavathy KM, Kumar JP, Marya RK

VCare For Life Sciences Journal, 2012;2(4):85-96.
MyJurnal

Obesity continues to be one of the most important emerging public health problems over the past few decades in all developing countries, and recently in non developing countries also, because of improving living standerds. Lack of physical activity and leisurely attitude are one of the factors which determine the obesity and many factors influence the physical activity levels. The Leisure Time Physical Activities (LTPA) could be an important factor which decides energy balance, which can be influenced by self-perception of obesity. In this pilot study the impact of self-perception of obesity on LTPA (Kcal/week) using Compendium of Physical activities by Ainsworth et al was studied among medical students. The increased level of physical activity (LTPA) was observed among both genders with BMI less than 25; but female with overweight/obesity (BMI ≥ 25) showed significant correlation of LTPA with their BMI (r2 = 33.15%; p = 0.03). The subjects perceived their weight in proportion to their BMI especially male students. The subjects were grouped based on their self-perception of obesity, and significant correlation between self-perception of obesity and LTPA was observed among females who neither disagree, nor agree their obesity (group 3: r2 = 74.31%; p = 0.0003). Among males BMI was significantly different between the groups. Most of the male subjects perceived their overweight/obesity and more LTPA among those perceived not obese. Among females who perceived their overweight performed more LTPA to reduce their BMI. But in both gender those with BMI more than 25 and those strongly agree their obesity had less LTPA. Hence this study contends the impact of self-perception of obesity on LTPA among medical students and the importance of motivation for those who require intervening by improving their physical activities.

Matched MeSH terms: Overweight
Fulltext Physical activity and cardiovascular risk factors among Malays in selected rural and urban communities in Sarawak

Cheah, Whye Lian, Helmy Hazmi, Chang, Ching Thon, Wan Manan Wan Muda

Malaysian Journal of Public Health Medicine, 2015;15(3):104-111.
MyJurnal

The objective of this study was to describe the differences in physical activity with socio-demographic factors and its association with cardiovascular risk factors. It was a cross-sectional study among selected urban and rural Malays communities in Kuching and Samarahan. Physical activity data was obtained using International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) short version. Assessment of cardiovascular risk factors was based on blood pressure, fasting cholesterol and glucose and body mass index (BMI). Data was analysed using SPSS version 20. A total of 223 participated with higher response from rural areas (60.1%) and females (61.9%). More than half of the respondents (58.5%) were overweight and obese, with a mean BMI of 25.9 kg/m2 (SD=4.9). About 25% of the respondents were found to have blood pressure in the at-risk range. The prevalence of at-risk blood glucose was 52.3% with a mean value of 7.3mmol/L (SD=3.46). The prevalence of at-risk cholesterol were lower with 31.8%, mean value of 3.5 mmol/L (SD=2.94). There were more active respondents living in rural area (p=0.02). Logistics regression analysis showed that urban area (OR=1.988 95% CI 1.082 to 3.652), systolic blood pressure (OR1.020 95% CI 1.003 to 1.037) and blood cholesterol (OR0.884 95% CI 0.785 to 0.996) were associated with physical activity level. Change of physical activity due to urbanization can increase the risk of obesity and other chronic diseases. Efforts to include physical activity in intervention programme should be more intensified, with more provision of suitable built environment.

Matched MeSH terms: Overweight
Fulltext The nutritional status of Malay children in Kampung Jenderam Hilir, Sepang District, Selangor

Lekhraj Rampal, G.R., Wong, C.H.

Malaysian Journal of Public Health Medicine, 2003;3(2):14-18.
MyJurnal

This is a cross»sectional study to determine the nutritional status of Malay children aged 6 to 10 years in Kampongknderam Hilir. A cross sectional study design was used.All households were included in the study. All the 218 Malaysian children aged 6 to 10 years in Kamponglenderam Hilir were included in the study. A pre-tested structured questionnaire was used to collect the data.
Data were analyzed by using Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) version 10. The minority of the chihlren were within normal range for weight·for-age, normal height for age status and weight for height status. However in small proportion of children, there was a persistence of protein·energy malnutrition problems. Overall 11% were underweight. There was no significant difference in the prevalence ofunderweight between males and females. The prevalence of overweight and stunting was 5 .3% and 11 .5%. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of sturtting in male compared to females. Although stunting was prevalent in all age groups (4.4% to 19.6%) a significant higher prevalence was observed in the age group 9 - 9.9 years compared to other age groups (p< 0.05). Wasting was present in 7.6% of the respondents. The 6 - 6.9 years age group had the highest wasting prevalence compared to other age groups. The prevalence of wasting was significantly higher in males. ln conclusion the overall nutritional status of children aged 6 to 10 years old in Kampong]enderam Hilir was satnfactory. However, there was still malnutrition in a small proportion of chihlren. Underweight, stunting and overweight were seen in all age groups. As such there is a need to identify these chiMren and improve their nutritional status.

Matched MeSH terms: Overweight
Fulltext Hypertension and its association with Anthropometric indices among students in a public university

Cheah WL, Majorie Ensayan J, Helmy H, Chang CT

Malays Fam Physician, 2018;13(1):2-9.
PMID: 29796204 MyJurnal

Introduction: The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of hypertension and its association with nutritional status (body mass index, body fat percentage, and visceral fat) among students in a public university in Sarawak, Malaysia.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional study among undergraduate students aged 18 years old and above. Anthropometric measurements, such as weight, height, body composition, and blood pressure measurements, were collected. Hypertension was defined as equal or more than 140/90 mmHg. Statistical analyses were done using IBM SPSS version 20.
Results: A total of 354 respondents participated in the study. Mean age for the respondents was 21 years (SD 1.18 years). About 40% of the respondents were overweight or obese. Prevalence of hypertension was 8.2%. Mean systolic blood pressure was 119.1mmHg (SD14.36mmHg), and the mean diastolic blood pressure was 72.6mmHg (SD 9.73mmHg). There is a significant association between male gender (odds ratio =3.519, 95% CI is 1.886-6.566), body fat percentage (odds ratio = 1.944, 95% CI is 1.050-3.601), visceral fat (odds ratio = 2.830, 95% CI is 1.346-5.951), and family history of hypertension (odds ratio= 2.366, 95% CI is 1.334-4.194) and hypertension.
Conclusion: The prevalence of hypertension was less than 10% and is associated with male gender, body composition, and family history of hypertension.

Matched MeSH terms: Overweight
Importance of Adopting BMI Classifications Using Public Health Action Points to Delineate Obstetric Risk Factors Resulting in Worsening Obstetric Outcomes Among Asian Population

Ganeshan M, Bujang MA, Soelar SA, Karalasingam SD, Suharjono H, Jeganathan R

J Obstet Gynaecol India, 2018 Jun;68(3):173-178.
PMID: 29895995 DOI: 10.1007/s13224-017-1000-9

Aims: The aim of this study is to compare obstetric outcomes between overweight and class 1 obesity among pregnant women in their first pregnancy based on WHO's BMI cut-offs and the potential public health action points identified by WHO expert consultations specific for high-risk population such as Asians.
Methods: This is a retrospective cohort review of data obtained from the Malaysian National Obstetrics and Gynaecology Registry between the year 2010 and year 2012. All women in their first pregnancy with a booking BMI in their first trimester were included in this study. The association between BMI classifications as defined by the WHO cut-offs and the potential public health action points identified by WHO expert consultations towards adverse obstetric outcomes was compared.
Results: A total of 88,837 pregnant women were included in this study. We noted that the risk of adverse obstetric outcomes was significantly higher using the public health action points identified by WHO expert consultations even among the overweight group as the risk of stillbirths was (OR 1.2; 95% CI 1.0,1.4), shoulder dystocia (OR 1.9; 95% CI 1.2,2.9), foetal macrosomia (OR 1.8; 95% CI 1.6,2.0), caesarean section (OR 1.9; 95% CI 1.8,2.0) and assisted conception (OR 1.9; 95% CI 1.6,2.1).
Conclusion: A specifically lower BMI references based on the potential public health action points for BMI classifications were a more sensitive predictor of adverse obstetric outcomes, and we recommend the use of these references in pregnancy especially among Asian population.

Matched MeSH terms: Overweight
The relationship between dietary patterns and overweight and obesity in children of Asian developing countries: A Systematic Review

Yang WY, Williams LT, Collins C, Siew Swee CW

JBI Libr Syst Rev, 2012 1 1;10(58):4568-4599.
PMID: 27820524

BACKGROUND: The exponential increase in prevalence of childhood obesity has become a global concern. Developing countries in Asia are at particular risk due to their stage in the epidemiological and nutrition transition.
OBJECTIVES: The review objectives were to summarize the evidence on prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity within developing countries in Asia and to synthesise the best epidemiological association between the dietary patterns of children in the developing countries in Asia and their weight status in terms of obesity.
INCLUSION CRITERIA: This review considered any studies that included children under 18 years of age who live in developing countries in Asia.This review of epidemiological association considered any analytical observational studies (case-control studies, cohort studies and analytical cross-sectional studies).The focus was to summarise the prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity within developing countries in Asia and synthesise the best available evidence on the relationship between dietary patterns as the exposure variable and childhood overweight and obesity as the outcome.
SEARCH STRATEGY: A three-step search strategy was utilised, with an initial limited search of MEDLINE, CINAHL and EMBASE to identify search terms. A second search using all identified keywords and index terms was undertaken across all included databases. Thirdly, the reference list of all identified reports and articles were searched for additional studies. Additional electronic databases searched included: ProQuest, Web of Science, and Scopus. Each database was searched from inception to September 2011, with an English language restriction.
METHODOLOGICAL QUALITY: All papers selected for retrieval were assessed independently by two reviewers using standardised critical appraisal instruments from the Joanna Briggs Institute.
DATA COLLECTION: Data was extracted from included studies by two reviewers independently using an adapted version of the standardised data extraction form from the Joanna Briggs Institute.
DATA SYNTHESIS: Meta-analysis was not possible because of the heterogeneity of studies in terms of methodology, statistical analyses and outcomes. A narrative summary of results is provided.
RESULTS: Fifteen studies were included in the review. The prevalence rates of childhood overweight and obesity in Asian developing countries ranged from 5.1% to 19.9% with no specific trend in age or gender. Several significant but inconsistent statistical associations between dietary patterns and overweight/obesity in children and adolescents were found [high energy diet (OR: 1.80 95%CI 1.10 to 2.90, p<0.05 vs 0.80 95%CI 0.60 to 1.10, p>0.05), low intake of fruit and vegetables (OR: 2.34 95%CI 1.04 to 5.24, p<0.001; 2.00 95%CI 1.10 to 3.40, p<0.05 vs 1.33 95%CI 0.44 to 4.05, p>0.05; 0.70 95%CI 0.50 to 1.00, p>0.05), high meat consumption (RR: 2.40 95%CI 1.00 to 5.60, p<0.05 vs 1.70 95%CI 1.00 to 2.70, p>0.05), eating out (OR: 12.0 95%CI 7.7 to 18.7, p<0.001; 1.70 95%CI 1.04 to 2.90, p<0.05 vs 1.20 95%CI 0.60 to 2.40, p>0.05), fast food intake (OR: 1.50 95%CI 1.12 to 2.02, p<0.05), presence of snacking (OR: 2.34 95%CI 1.01 to 5.54, p=0.05; 1.26 95%CI 1.13 to 1.40, p<0.05 vs 0.80 95%CI 0.48 to 1.32,p=0.377; 0.60 95%CI 0.30 to 0.99, p<0.05; 0.60 95%CI 0.40 to 0.90, p<0.05) and drinking sugar sweetened beverages (OR: 1.60 95%CI 1.02 to 2.50, p<0.05; 1.70 95%CI 1.10 to 2.70, p<0.05 vs 0.93 95%CI 0.82 to 1.05, p>0.05)]. The key limitation was the heterogeneity of studies in terms of measures of dietary patterns and obesity standards.
CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence rates of childhood overweight and obesity in Asian developing countries ranged from 5.1% to 19.9% with no specific trend in age or gender. From the practice perspective, several significant yet inconsistent statistical associations between dietary patterns and childhood overweight/obesity in children and adolescents were found.This review highlights the need for clinicians to monitor the effects of dietary change on the weight and health status of children in Asian countries.There is a need for valid measures of dietary intake and use of standardised international cut-offs for overweight and obesity, and for future researchers to conduct prospective studies to determine the causal relationship between Asian children's dietary pattern and their weight status.

Matched MeSH terms: Overweight
Salivary Leptin Level in Young Adult Males and its Association with Anthropometric Measurements, Fat Distribution and Muscle Mass

Ibrahim Abdalla MM, Siew Choo S

Eur Endocrinol, 2018 Sep;14(2):94-98.
PMID: 30349601 DOI: 10.17925/EE.2018.14.2.94

Aims: 1) To assess salivary leptin levels in normal-underweight versus overweight and obese healthy adult males aged 18-25 years old. 2) The relative contribution of anthropometric measurements, fat percentage, fat distribution (visceral versus subcutaneous) and total as well as regional muscle mass in arms, trunk and legs respectively in predicting salivary leptin levels. Methods: A total of 92 adult males were classified into two groups based on their body mass index (BMI): normal-underweight, BMI <24.9 kg/m2 (n=51); overweight-obese, BMI >25 kg/m2 (n=41). Anthropometric measurements such as BMI, waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC) and waist-hip ratio (WHR) were measured through standardised methods. Fat percentage, visceral fat level, subcutaneous fat and muscle mass (total and regional) were measured using Karada scan bioelectrical impedance method. Fasting saliva samples were collected and used for assessing salivary leptin concentrations using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: Statistical analysis of the data showed a significant difference between the two groups in all of the parameters measured except height and salivary leptin levels. Multiple regression analysis showed that HC, WC and WHR were good predictors for salivary leptin levels in normal-underweight group. However, in the overweight-obese group, height was the most important independent variable that could predict salivary leptin levels as a dependent variable. Conclusions: Predictors for salivary leptin levels in adult healthy males are different in normal-underweight subjects from overweight-obese subjects. The most important predictor for salivary leptin levels is HC in normal weight subjects, while it is height in overweight and obese healthy adult males.

Matched MeSH terms: Overweight
Risk association, linkage disequilibrium and haplotype analyses of FASN rs4246445, rs2229425, rs2228305 and rs2229422 polymorphisms in overweight and obesity

Chong ETJ, Kuok SSE, Lee PC

Bioimpacts, 2018;8(3):159-165.
PMID: 30211075 DOI: 10.15171/bi.2018.18

Introduction:
Obesity is commonly linked up with several life-threatening diseases. This study aims to investigate the association of fatty acid synthase (FASN) rs4246445, rs2229425, rs2228305, and rs2229422 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with the risk of overweight and obesity in the Malaysian population.
Methods:
Blood samples were collected from 1030 individuals who were grouped into normal, overweight, and obese categories. Blood biochemistry test and lipid profiling were performed and genomic DNA was extracted. Genotyping was performed using hydrolysis probes and odd ratio with 95% CI was calculated for risk association analysis. Linkage disequilibrium and haplotypes analyses were carried out using SHEsis software.
Results:
We found that the hemoglobin and white blood cell counts were significantly high in the obese subjects. There is a lack of evidence to link the FASN SNPs with the risk of overweight and obesity in the population. All 4 SNPs were seemed to be in linkage equilibrium. Five common haplotypes were identified in this study but none of them was significantly associated with overweight and obesity in the population.
Conclusion:
Our findings suggest a lack of evidence to associate the FASN rs4246445, rs2229425, rs2228305, and rs2229422 SNPs with the risk of overweight and obesity in the Malaysian population. All 4 SNPs were independent of each other and not all identified haplotypes were significantly associated with overweight and obesity in this study.

Matched MeSH terms: Overweight
Fulltext Psychometric evaluation of the malay version of the impact of weight on quality of life-lite (IWQOL-LITE) questionnaire

Mohd Rizal Abdul Manaf, Ahmad Fareed Abdul Rahman Aniza Ismail, Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh, Azimatunnoor Aizuddin

Int J Public Health Res, 2018;8(1):950-955.
MyJurnal

Introduction The availability of obesity specific quality of life measurement tool is limited. The Malay version of Impact of Weight on Quality of Life-Lite is an obesity specific quality of life questionnaire which has been translated for use in Malaysia. The aim of this study is to evaluate the validity and reliability of this questionnaire to measure quality of life among different body mass index (BMI) groups.
Methods One hundred and twenty subjects with different BMI categories who attended an outpatient government clinic were recruited for this study. The translated Malay version of IWQOL-Lite was used to assess the impact of weight on quality of life of respondents. Content validity, criterion validity and construct validity were used to assess the questionnaire validity while internal consistencies and test-retest reliability were used to assess the questionnaire reliability.
Results The Malay version of IWQOL-Lite showed good psychometric properties. The content validity was agreed upon by expert panels. The mean score of all IWQOL-Lite domains were able to discriminate between different BMI groups. Good internal consistency was demonstrated by Cronbach alpha of 0.936. Test-retest reliability ranged from 0.828 to 0.932. The physical function score (IWQOL-Lite) correlated positively with Physical Component Summary of Short Form-36 questionnaire. Exploratory factor analysis found that the questions loaded on their respective five domains.
Conclusions The results suggested that the Malay version of IWQOL-Lite is a valid and reliable tool to measure quality of life among obese and overweight subjects in Malaysia.

Matched MeSH terms: Overweight
Fulltext Healthy sleep behaviour as weight loss strategy in managing obesity among women in Malaysia: a review

Absah M, Muhammad Shahrim Ab K, Zainal Abidin M, Rosita J, Ungku Fatimah Ungku Zainal A

Jurnal Psikologi Malaysia, 2017;31(2):68-77.

The development of overweight and obesity among women in Malaysia has shown an increasing trend between the year 2003 and 2014 base on the Malaysian Adult Nutrition Survey report in 2015. The prevalence of obesity was significantly higher in women by 22.9% compared to men 14.5%. There are many factors contributing to the upsurge of obesity among women and among most, sleep disorders has been the emerging issue which has longed been discussed. Certain important factors affecting women related to sleep quality such as stress, insomnia, depression and some biological conditions like menopause, menstrual cycle and pregnancy can affect sleep quality. This paper serves to review how lack of sleep quality is associated to the development of obesity and why healthy sleep behaviour could aid to weight loss. Public health approaches to reducing the burden of obesity must consider equipping the women in managing their sleep related issues and how they are able to control the food consumption and lifestyle of the family. Thus, promoting healthy sleep behaviour among women emphasized on the importance of deriving sleep quality through three important factors that is early bed time, sleep in the dark and sleep duration would be a contributing factor in managing obesity through healthy lifestyle changes.
Study name: Malaysian Adult Nutrition Survey (MAN-2014)

Matched MeSH terms: Overweight
Fulltext Comparisons of body mass index, waist circumference, waist-to-height ratio and a body shape index (ABSI) in predicting high blood pressure among Malaysian adolescents: a cross-sectional study

Tee JYH, Gan WY, Lim PY

BMJ Open, 2020 01 12;10(1):e032874.
PMID: 31932391 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-032874

OBJECTIVE: To compare the performance of different anthropometric indices including body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and a body shape index to predict high blood pressure (BP) in adolescents using the 90th and 95th percentiles as two different thresholds.
DESIGN: Cross-sectional study.
SETTING: Probability proportionate to size was used to randomly select two schools in Selangor state, Malaysia.
PARTICIPANTS: A total of 513 adolescents (58.9% women and 41.1% men) aged 12-16 years were recruited.
PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES: Weight, height, WC and BP of the adolescents were measured. The predictive power of anthropometric indices was analysed by sex using the receiver operating characteristic curve.
RESULTS: BMI and WHtR were the indices with higher areas under the curve (AUCs), yet the optimal cut-offs to predict high BP using the 95th percentile were higher than the threshold for overweight/obesity. Most indices showed poor sensitivity under the suggested cut-offs. In contrast, the optimal BMI and WHtR cut-offs to predict high BP using the 90th percentile were lower (men: BMI-for-age=0.79, WHtR=0.46; women: BMI-for-age=0.92, WHtR=0.45). BMI showed the highest AUC in both sexes but had poor sensitivity among women. WHtR presented good sensitivity and specificity in both sexes.
CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggested that WHtR might be a useful indicator for screening high blood pressure risk in the routine primary-level health services for adolescents. Future studies are warranted to involve a larger sample size to confirm these findings.

Matched MeSH terms: Overweight
Fulltext Cardiorespiratory fitness, physical activity level, body mass index and blood pressure among university students in Negeri Sembilan

Balarama T, Ramalingam V, Kantharuban PR, Chandran J, Surendran PJ

Malaysian Journal of Public Health Medicine, 2017;17(2):128-139.

Noncommunicable diseases are the number one killer globally and it could develop due to various risk factors. This cross-sectional study was aimed to identify these risk factors by assessing body mass index, waist circumference, waist to hip ratio and blood pressure and to find out the correlation between these risk factors, and cardiorespiratory fitness and physical activity level. The study samples were 103 students from two universities in Negeri Sembilan state selected by the convenience sampling method. After ethical clearance, International Physical Activity Questionnaire-short form in English was used to assess the physical activity level. The cardiorespiratory fitness was assessed by the Rockport one mile walk test and the other parameters were assessed following the standard protocols. The percentage of overweight (32.04%) and pre-hypertension (25.24%) were higher among students. 35.92% of students reported a low physical activity level and 46.6% having a lower fitness level (fair and poor). The physical activity level correlated with the cardiorespiratory fitness level (P<0.01). The body mass index (P<0.01) and systolic blood pressure (male P 0.05, female P<0.01) negatively correlated with the cardiorespiratory fitness level. Therefore, measures have to be taken to improve the physical activity level and cardiorespiratory fitness to lower the risk of overweight and high blood pressure among university students.

Matched MeSH terms: Overweight
Fulltext Prevalence and predictors of overweight and obesity among women in the Gaza strip-Palestine: a cross-sectional study

El Kishawi RR, Soo KL, Abed YA, Muda WAMW

BMC Public Health, 2020 Jun 05;20(1):864.
PMID: 32503538 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-08966-1

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of overweight and obesity among women of childbearing age is considered a public health concern. Few studies have been conducted in the Gaza Strip to determine the magnitude of overweight and obesity. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity along with their associated factors among women in the Gaza Strip.
METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted to recruit a total of 357 mothers aged 18-50 years. Interviews were carried out among mothers to collect sociodemographic information, nutritional information, and physical activity. Anthropometric measurements [height, weight and waist circumference (WC)] were conducted with the mothers. Body Mass Index (BMI) was computed to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine the associated factors of overweight and obesity.
RESULTS: The combined prevalence of overweight and obesity among mothers was (64.1%). The results of multinomial logistic regression showed the risk of overweight and obesity increased with age, the highest risk being in mothers aged > 33.0 years (OR = 2.7, 95% CI: (1.06,6.86)), and (OR = 5.72, 95% CI: (2.07,15.78)), respectively, compared to mothers aged overweight and obesity. Mothers exposed to higher monthly income were more likely to be overweight or obese (OR = 2.64, 95% CI: (1.20, 5.83)), and (OR = 3.06, 95% CI: (1.28,7.29)), respectively. Nutrition knowledge was significantly associated with a high prevalence of obesity (OR = 1.20, 95% CI: (1.03,1.38)).
CONCLUSIONS: This study showed a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity among Palestinian women than previous studies. Age, educational level, monthly income, and nutrition knowledge were associated with the prevalence of overweight and obesity, compared to other variables that were not associated with overweight and obesity such as location, work status, physical activity, and sitting hours. Urgent action is needed to tackle overweight and obesity among women. Effective intervention is required to increase nutrition knowledge among women to improve their eating behaviors.

Matched MeSH terms: Overweight
Fulltext Perceived barriers to exercise in women with gestational diabetes mellitus

Arasoo VJT, Dominic NA, Ramadas A, Lim KH, Tiong CW, Liew E, et al.

International Medical Journal Malaysia, 2018;17(3):49-58.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Good control of glycaemia negates potential maternal and fetal complications. A diet suitable for women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a first line approach. However, little is said about suitable exercise in pregnancy that will potentially help control glycaemia. This pilot study seeks to understand the perceived barriers to exercise in women with GDM.
Materials and Methods: This crosssectional study recruited patients with GDM on diet control at the antenatal clinic of Hospital Sultanah Aminah Johor Bahru, Malaysia between October 2017 and January 2018. Those who fulfilled the recruitment criteria were approached and 89 women consented to participate. Data was obtained from antenatal records and a self-administered questionnaire.
Results: The mean age of the participants was 33.3 years. More than 80% were Para 1 and above. 69.6% were either overweight or obese at booking of pregnancy. 80.9% were aware that exercise was necessary for women with GDM. Only 6.7% say that healthcare professionals were their source of information on exercise in pregnancy. 77.3% of the women with low physical activity had full time jobs. Housewives (64.5%) had the highest level of physical activity. Tiredness (43.8%), childcare duties (38.2%) and lack of time (27.0%) were the most common perceived barriers to exercise. Nulliparity was significantly associated with tiredness.
Conclusion: Main barriers to exercise are tiredness and childcare duties. Health care professionals did little in educating women with GDM on suitable exercise.

Matched MeSH terms: Overweight
Fulltext Parent’s knowledge on healthy lifestyle for children under-5 years [Abstract]

Mohamed Nasir AD, Mohd Kassim AB

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2019;15(104):68.
MyJurnal

ABSTRACTS FOR INTERNATIONAL FAMILY HEALTH CONFERENCE 2019 (I-FaH 2019). Health Intervention Towards Community Wellness, Held at Oriental Crystal Hotel, Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia .4-5th September, 2019
Introduction: Obesity, a major risk factor for chronic disease, is a growing problem in Malaysia. Current data from the National Health Morbidity Survey (NHMS) shows that prevalence of overweight for children under five years has increased from 6.5% (NHMS 2011) to 7.6 % (NHMS 2015). Childhood obesity needs to be addressed as studies also have shown that childhood obesity contributes to adult chronic disease. Increase in chronic diseases will cause an increase in health care cost. Intervention programmes are available and currently target schoolchildren and adults. No programme yet targeting at children under five years. This survey was conducted to understand parents level of knowledge with regards to healthy lifestyle among children under-5 years.
Methods: Parents attending Health Clinics in the state of Perak were given self-administered questionnaire.
Results: Twenty two (22) Health Clinics from 11 districts in Perak were involved in the survey. A total of 600 parents or care givers participated. Majority were unaware of good sleep hygiene and screen time limitation.
Conclusion: Awareness of healthy lifestyle for children under 5 years has not been given due attention. Health intervention via promotion is needed for prevention of obesity.

Matched MeSH terms: Overweight

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