European Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine

Introduction: In today's demanding academic landscape, childhood leisure takes a backseat, impacting values and societal characteristics. Leisure, encompassing relaxation, enjoyment, and intrinsic motivation, plays a vital role in positive development, humanization, and interpersonal relationships. Its utilization varies based on location, parental education, and socioeconomic factors, involving physical activities, media engagement, and arts participation. Methodology: This cross-sectional study, conducted over a two-year period in Berhampur, Ganjam, aimed to explore the relationship between leisure activities and childhood obesity in both government and private schools. A total of 400 students participated, and the study assessed the quantity and quality of leisure time, correlating these factors with Body Mass Index (BMI). Result: The study identified an alarming prevalence of obesity (11.5%) and overweight (13%) among students, with private schools exhibiting a higher prevalence of obesity (22.3%) than government schools (8.3%). Males showed a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity compared to females, possibly influenced by cultural expectations. Discussion: A significant relationship between physical inactivity and BMI was observed, underscoring the crucial role of physical activity in obesity prevention. The findings emphasize the urgent need for interventions promoting physical activity to combat the rising prevalence of obesity among school children. Encouraging structured play and discouraging excessive screen time are vital components of fostering a healthy lifestyle. Conclusion: Prevention remains paramount, with the adoption of a healthy lifestyle, reduced sedentary time, regular exercise, and a nutritious diet being key strategies. Routine screening for overweight individuals is essential for timely interventions. Schools, parents, and pediatricians play pivotal roles in addressing this emerging health issue, highlighting the importance of a collaborative approach to promote and maintain a healthy lifestyle among school children.