Background: The COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdown measures have significantly impacted the lifestyle behaviors of children and adolescents worldwide. The present study aimed to study the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on weight gain and lifestyle behavior in school-age children and adolescents, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Methods: This study looked into the lifestyle behaviors of 597 children and adolescents in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, during the COVID-19 lockdown period. Data on weight gain, dietary habits, physical activity levels, screen time, sleep patterns, school performance, psychological state, and demographic characteristics were collected through a structured questionnaire. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests, were conducted to explore associations between lifestyle factors and participant characteristics.
Results: The mean age of the participants was 13.8 years (SD = 2) and with a mean BMI of 23.05 kg/m2 (SD = 4.77). The sample consisted of 398 females (66.7%) and 199 males (33.3%). The majority of participants reported weight gain during the lockdown, with significant increases in the consumption of fast/junk food and screen time. Physical activity levels decreased, while sedentary behaviors increased. Sleep disturbances and changes in sleep patterns were common, along with shifts to online learning. School performance varied, with some participants experiencing declines. Psychological impacts included increased stress and preferences for isolation.
Conclusion: The COVID-19 lockdown in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, led to significant changes in lifestyle behaviors among children and adolescents, including increased weight gain, sedentary behaviors, screen time, and sleep disturbances. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to promote healthy behaviors and support the well-being of youth during and after the pandemic.
Key words: Impact of COVID-19, weight gain, lifestyle behavior, school age children, adolescents
|
