In conclusion, the present study examined the associations
of several lifestyle factors with overweight/obesity
and abdominal obesity in Saudi adolescents aged 14–
Al-Hazzaa et al. BMC Public Health 2012, 12:354 Page 9 of 11
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19 years. Among all of the lifestyle factors assessed,
overweight and obesity exhibited significant associations
with less frequent vigorous physical activity, and less frequent
consumption of breakfast, vegetables and sugarsweetened
beverages. Primary prevention of obesity by
promoting a healthy diet and active lifestyles should be a
national public health priority. Efforts designed to combat
obesity among children and adolescents must include
education, research and intervention, through the
involvement of policy makers, health care providers,
educators and parents