J Korean Pediatr Soc.  2003 Jul;46(7):642-646.

Mothers' Recognition of Childhood Obesity

• Kim MJ
• Kwak AJ
• Choi KH
• Park YH
• Lee KS

Abstract

PURPOSE
This study was performed to know the mothers' recognition of childhood obesity because the mothers' role is essential for management in childhood.
METHODS
Seven hundred and seventy two mothers who visited pediatrics clinics in five regional cities(Daegu, Kumi, Waekan, Kyungsan and Youngchun) were include in a questionnaire survey concerning childhood obesity. The questionnaire was anonymous and filled in by the mothers themselves.
RESULTS
Most of the mothers perceived childhood obesity as a serious disease. Sources of acquisition of knowledge about obesity were health programs on TV or radio(70.3%), advertisements in newspapers or magazines(44.0%) and from neighbors or relatives(20.0%) and hospitals or clinics(3.0 %). Mothers wish to acquire more knowledge about childhood obesity by health programs on TV or radio(43.8%) and hospitals or clinics(35.9%). The most common apprehensions of mothers carring out their childrens' obesity management program was psychologic stress(63.6%). If children were obese, almost all mothers wanted to treat them by various methods.
CONCLUSION
For the more efficient management of childhood obesity, doctors' role in consultation and management should be emphasized.

Keyword

Childhood obesity; Mothers' recognition

MeSH Terms

Anonyms and Pseudonyms
Child
Gyeongsangbuk-do
Humans
Mothers
Periodicals
Obesity
Pediatric Obesity*
Pediatrics
Surveys and Questionnaires