COVID-19 and Obesity

Obesity

The Body Mass Index (BMI) is one of the methods for assessing overweight and obesity. It is calculated by dividing the body weight (in kg) by the square of height (in m): kg/m2. For Chinese adults in Hong Kong, BMI between 23.0 and 24.9 kg/m2 is classified as overweight, and BMI 25.0 kg/m2 or above is classified as obese. For children and adolescents, “Weight-for-Height Chart” (Boys / Girls) is applied for assessment, and overweight (including obesity) is defined as body weight exceeding 120% of the median weight-for-height for male students with height between 55 and 175 cm and for female students with height between 55 and 165 cm. BMI is used to assess weight status for male students with height > 175 cm and for female students with height > 165 cm. BMI between 23.0 and 24.9 kg/m2 is overweight. BMI equal 25.0 kg/m2 or above is obese.

Impact of COVID-19 on Obesity

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been affecting the globe in recent years. Under the pandemic, there have been significant changes in the living habits of public members, such as reduced outdoor and physical activities and increased sedentary behaviour. These behavioural changes may inadvertently increase the risk of obesity. For children and adolescents, school closure, online classes, reduced outdoor activities and increased screen time all contribute to physical inactivity and consequential overweight and obesity.

Obesity
Overweight and obesity

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