Study of different lifestyle parameters and their impact on health parameters of rural and urban adolescent school children

The present study investigated the impact of lifestyle parameters on physical and psychological health aspects of adolescent school children in rural and urban areas of the Tirupati region, focusing on socio demographic characteristics and lifestyle parameters. This cross-sectional study conducted on 979 students of both sexes in different schools during August-November-2023. A predesigned, structured questionnaire containing food habits (vegetarian/non vegetarian), frequency of non-vegetarian and junk food consumption, mode of transport to schools, screen watching time, time spent for physical activity, health issues and stress levels was answered by the study subjects. Anthropometric measurements were taken to measure body mass index (BMI). The study found that high percentage of girls in rural and urban schools are vegetarians than boys. Non-vegetarian food consumption is high among urban boys than other groups and urban school children show high frequency of fast-food consumption. Urban school children also showed higher levels of less physical activity, vehicle use, and screen watching. In underweight category, regardless of school type, a greater number of girls were recorded, while higher percentages of urban private school boys were found to be overweight and obese than other groups. A higher percentage of boys and girls in rural and urban schools reported partial mental health issues. The findings highlight that rural urban divide and changed life style factors profoundly influence underweight/overweight/obesity that consequently affects a child's psychological well-being. It accentuates the importance of bringing in awareness among students, teachers and parents about nurturing healthier lifestyles that fosters improved health and overall well-being of adolescent children.