Overweight/obesity is a global public health challenge. This was a cross-sectional study that aimed to identify multivariable predictors of overweight and obesity in children aged 6-17 years in Tirana. Anthropometric measurements were collected to calculate Body Mass Index (BMI), classified according to international cut-offs. Socio-demographic characteristics, dietary habits, breakfast consumption, physical activity and screen time were assessed through a structured questionnaire, based on self-report by participants. In a total of 600 participants, the prevalence of overweight and obesity was 10% (n=60) and underweight/normal weight 90% (n=540) increased with age. Chi-squared analyses showed that male gender, adolescence, high screen time, low physical activity, and low fruit consumption were significantly associated with overweight and obesity, whereas breakfast and fast food consumption were not. Binary logistic regression identified male gender (OR=2.50, 95% CI 1.38-4.53, p=0.002), older age (OR=1.71, 95% CI 1.11-2.65, p=0.015), and participation in sports ≥60 min/day (OR=1.84, 95% CI 1.04-3.26, p=0.038) as independent predictors. These findings highlight the multifactorial nature of childhood obesity and underscore the need for policymaking, interventions based on school, family, and socio-cultural environments, where children are part of these environments.
Keywords: Albania, BMI, Childhood Obesity, Physical activity, nutritional habits, screen time
