Nutritional Assessment of School Children in AlMadinah AlMunawarah City: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Childhood obesity poses a global health concern with implications for long-term health and well-being. In Saudi Arabia, the increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity among children and adolescents requires urgent action to understand the contributing factors affecting lifestyle and dietary choices. This study addresses the nutritional challenges faced by school children in AlMadinah AlMunawarah, Saudi Arabia. Methods : A cross-sectional stratified study was conducted involving 6000 healthy school children aged 5-18 years, selected through random sampling from 20 schools. Anthropometric measurements, dietary intake, and physical activity data were collected using validated questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS. Descriptive statistics and inferential analysis were used to present the major findings of the study. Results: A total of 3987 students responded with a response rate of 67%, including 56% boys and 44% girls. The mean BMI was 20.7 ± 5.84 kg/m². The prevalence of obesity and overweight was 14.7% and 15.4%, respectively, while 19% were underweight. Obesity was more prevalent among boys (16%) than girls (14%). Approximately 88% of participants consumed fried foods regularly, while 61% consumed soft drinks daily. Only 37% of boys and 32% of girls reported daily milk intake. Physical inactivity was common, with 44% of students reporting no daily activity and 77% reporting screen use during meals. Conclusions: Unhealthy dietary practices, high consumption of energy-dense foods, and sedentary lifestyles contribute to the nutritional imbalance among school children in AlMadinah AlMunawarah, Saudi Arabia. Early school-based nutritional interventions and public health policies are crucial to reduce the burden of childhood obesity and promote healthier dietary and physical activity habits.