Childhood Obesity in India: A Meta-Analysis

Developing countries are now facing the double burden of childhood underweight and obesity. Childhood obesity is a recent epidemic with a high magnitude in India. Therefore, the authors decided to assess the prevalence of overweight and obesity among Indian children. Studies were identified through computer-based and manual searches. Estimates of prevalence were studied using random effects meta-analysis. Nine studies including 92,862 subjects were identified and analysed. The prevalence of overweight was estimated to be 12.64% (95% CI 8.48–16.80%) and that of obesity to be 3.39% (95% CI 2.58–4.21%). Current evidence suggests that policies and interventions for children should prioritize reduction of obesity and overweight.