Factors influencing obesity and weight loss in young children attending childcare centres

Abstract

Objective: Childhood obesity is a growing global concern influenced by prenatal genetic and postnatal environmental factors. This study focuses on the impact of gross motor development on obesity in infants and young children.

Methods: A web-based questionnaire was administered to mothers of children in nursery or kindergarten. The survey collected data on children's and mothers' daily routines and the ages at which children acquired gross motor skills. Children's body mass index (BMI) was calculated from their height and weight. Multiple regression analysis was conducted with BMI as the dependent variable.

Results: The study included 69 participants, 44 with higher BMI and 25 with lower BMI. Key factors for higher BMI were cesarean delivery and delayed walking onset. In contrast, factors for lower BMI included delayed rolling over and walking, younger maternal age, and exclusive formula feeding.

Conclusions: Gross motor development in infants and young children may influence obesity and weight loss. Future research should explore the causes of weight changes during growth.