Ecological Correlates of Preschooler Obesity: A Multilevel Study

BACKGROUND: The risk factors for preschooler obesity at various levels have been identified, but little is known about the organizational-level factors of environments in which preschoolers spend long periods of time.

METHODS: This study focused on factors at the organizational level and attempted multilevel modeling to appropriately estimate the effects with individual-level factors controlled. In 2013 and 2019, data from 295 and 112 preschoolers aged 2–5 years were collected, combined, and analyzed.

RESULTS: At the individual level, mother’s sedentary behavior was a significant factor, while at the organizational level, teacher’s sedentary behavior was a significant factor.

CONCLUSION: Focus should be placed on developing obesity risk reduction intervention for this population group. Although there no statistical significance was observed, there is a need to improve the organizational environment such as reducing screen time and shortening the duration of study-focused programs. Moreover, further investigation in a prospective study is required to determine the evidence of these proposed interventions.