PURPOSE: To analyze the risk factors associated with obesity and overweight in school children of both sex. METHOD: Survey study carried out with 162 children students from a public school in the city of São Paulo, SP, Brazil. Data collection was obtained by means of a form with anthropometric data and about dietary habits. Data were analyzed using inferential statistics. RESULTS: Obese and over weighted children represent 38.2% of the sample. Relevant associated risk factor was the use of soda beverages and the practice of physical exercises. CONCLUSION: The study highlighted the presence of obesity and overweight in the sample under study, confirming the global trend of change in the nutritional profile of the population in general.
Obesity; Weight by age; Risk factor; Community health nursing