IMPORTANCE OF BODY MASS INDEX (BMI) IN SCHOOL CHILDREN

Introduction: Obesity is increasing at an alarming rate throughout the world. By creating awareness on obesity and its effects on health to students, we not only prevent many medical conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, but motivate the students to improve their overall health, which has an impact on their performance, personality development and self-confidence. Purpose: This study was conducted to create awareness and preventive health measures among students on Body Mass Index, and preventive measure for obesity through counseling students on healthy nutrition and the importance of physical activities. Methodology: BMI was done for all the students from grade 1 to grade 12(4,736 students from 5 to 18 years. 100 students volunteered to do the Healthy weight watch Programme with the consent of the parents. BMI=weight in kg/ (Height in meters)2. Results: Children enjoyed participating in the Health Awareness programme. 81 students have reduced weight by participating in the programme most of them feel it is due to increased physical activity, and change in food habits. Parental involvement was 64%. Students enjoy sports and other physical activity. Television watching and use of other gadgets is the other cause of sedentary lifestyle. Focusing on reducing time spent watching television and increasing time spent in physical activity may be successful means of preventing obesity Conclusion: By conducting the BMI for all the students in the schools every year, we will know to which group of students we should concentrate the health awareness programmes. A holistic approach for effective weight management and prevention of chronic diseases is important.