Weight Profile In Young Subjects, Link With Physical Activity Level (pal)

Abstract

Some Algerian regional surveys on the prevalence of adolescent obesity show the extent of this epidemic. Regarding the level of physical activity (PAL), we do not yet have data concerning this category. Conscious of the close link between obesity and lack of physical activity, particularly long-term health consequences, it is necessary to know the proportion of adolescents whose level of physical activity is in line with the recommendations issued by World Health Organization. The aim of this study is to describe the physical activity level (PAL) of obese adolescents by evaluating their energy expenditure. The cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 650 high school students from Algiers. It appears from this study that nearly 2/3 of students do not reach the health-promoting PAL. Such an observation is associated with the relatively high prevalence of overweight students (16.30% overweight and 26.15% abdominally obese). Plans to combat physical inactivity must be implemented to promote health by facilitating access to physical activity. Key words: Physical activities, Weight profile, Physical Activity Level (PAL), high school students.