Sex-Specific Factors Associated with Overweight and Obesity among Korean Adolescents: Based on the Seventh Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Overweight and obesity among adolescents are increasing worldwide, with factors potentially differing by sex. We aimed to identify sex-related differences in the prevalence of overweight and obesity among Korean adolescents and the sex-specific factors associated with obesity. We analyzed secondary data of 12~18-year-old adolescents who participated in the seventh Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2016~2018). Using complex sample analysis, multiple logistic regression was performed to investigate the sex-specific factors associated with adolescent overweight and obesity. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was higher among male adolescents (51.8%) than among female adolescents (48.2%). Self-rated health status and body shape, efforts to control weight, and sleep on weekdays were significantly associated with overweight and obesity among male adolescents. Self-rated health status and body shape, efforts to control weight, sitting time, food intake, energy intake, and water intake showed significant relationships with overweight and obesity among female adolescents. The results of this study provide preliminary evidence for developing effective strategies to prevent obesity among Korean adolescents. Sex-specific factors influencing obesity should be considered when administering interventions.