High socioeconomic status, living in
Lima, having a mother who is overweight
or obese, being male, and being
an only child or having only one sibling
were associated with being overweight
and obese at this age. By identifying
associated factors, this study has highlighted
some key issues to consider in
relation to childhood obesity in developing
countries and indicates a number of
directions for further research. Nationally
representative investigations of the relationships
among SES, income inequality,
and childhood overweight and obesity
are needed to fully understand this public
health concern.