Published Paper Details:

Background: Screen time refers to the total amount of time spent viewing a screen related device (eg. mobile, television, laptop, etc.) per day. The recommended screen time is 1-2 hours for adolescents. Adolescence is a crucial phase of physical, mental, emotional and behavorial development in humans. Obesity during this time could have several long term consequences such as metabolic diseases, cardiometabolic disorders, etc. Objectives: To assess the influence of screen time, sleep patterns and dietary habits on the BMI of adolescents. BMI was used as an indicator for obesity. Study design: Experimental study. Effect of intervention was seen by comparing the pre and post-test results. Participants: 100 samples (10-15 years). Intervention: A pre-test was conducted where subjects filled a questionnaire about their diet, sleep schedule and screen usage. A nutrition education programme was then conducted. Post-intervention period of 3 months, BMI was measured again and subjects filled a similar questionnaire. Outcome: Subjects who followed the recommended guidelines by decreasing their screen time, improving their sleep timings, and inculcating healthier eating habits in their daily routine were seen to have a reduced BMI. Result: BMI during the post-test showed an 8% increment in normal weight, 1% decrease in underweight, a 5% decrease in overweight, and a 2% decrease in the obese category. Conclusion: The programme was therefore seen to be educational and beneficial for subjects. It is recommended that such programmes continue being conducted for children of all ages to improve their health and spread awareness about diseases.