Author/Authors :
Tayyem, R.F. The Hashemite University - Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Jordan , Al-Hazzaa, H.M. King Saud University - College of Education - Pediatric Exercise Physiology Research Laboratory, Saudi Arabia , Abu-Mweis, S.S. The Hashemite University - Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Jordan , Bawadi, H.A. Jordan University of Science and Technology - Department of Nutrition and Food Technology, Jordan , Hammad, S.S. The Hashemite University - Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Jordan , Musaiger, A.O. University of Bahrain - Health Studies Unit Health Studies Unit, Bahrain , Musaiger, A.O. Arab Center for Nutrition, Bahrain
Abstract :
The present study examined differences in dietary habits and physical activity levels between students attending private and public high schools in Jordan. A total of 386 secondary-school males and 349 females aged 14–18 years were randomly recruited using a multistage, stratified, cluster sampling technique. Dietary habits and physical activity level were self-reported in a validated questionnaire. The prevalence of obesity was significantly higher among adolescents in private (26.0%) than in public schools (16.7%). The frequency of breakfast intake was significantly higher among adolescents in private schools, whereas French fries and sweets intake was significantly higher in public schools. Television viewing showed a significant interaction with school type by sex. A higher rate of inactivity was found among students attending private schools. Despite a slightly better overall dietary profile for students in private schools, they had a higher rate of overweight and obesity compared with those in public schools.
