The relationship between physical activity and diet, and overweight and obesity, in young people.

BACKGROUND: Childhood obesity has a worldwide association with serious health problems and complications that increase the risk of illness and death.

AIM: To identify and assess the factors contributing to overweight and obesity among school students in north Jordan.

METHOD: A descriptive cross-sectional study involving 1,554 students was conducted between October 2014 and February 2015.

RESULTS: More than two thirds (70%) of participants were normal weight (5th percentile-<85th percentile), while 12% were overweight and 13% were obese. The prevalence of obesity was high (20%) among those eating snacks three times per day. The prevalence of overweight was high (12%) among those who followed no regular physical activity programme.

CONCLUSION: Collaboration is required between policymakers, healthcare professionals, business and community leaders, schools and local organisations to create suitable environments that support healthy lifestyles for children and young people.