Parental perceptions and concerns of weight status in children with autism spectrum disorders in Kuwait.
Author: Alkazemi, D., Rahman, A., AlSaad, S., & Kubow, S.
Source:
Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders, 22, 1-9.
Autism spectrum disorders are developmental disabilities associated with deficits in
communication skills. The distinct behavioral and physical characteristics of ASD can make
these individuals more vulnerable to obesity. This study evaluated the prevalence of obesity
in a group of ASD children and investigated their dietary habits, and mealtime behavior.
Parental perception and awareness associated with overweight and obesity was evaluated.
Data was collected from 65 student-respondent dyads in a cross-sectional survey of
students enrolled at the Kuwait Center for Autism. Fifty-nine percent respondents reported
regular measurement of their children’s height and weight. Both healthy (daily breakfast,
daily milk intake, frequent consumption of fish and seafood, and consuming fruits and
vegetables) and unhealthy (consuming fast foods) dietary habits were reported by majority
of respondents. Most respondents (78%) felt that their children ate a varied diet. Mood
swings and hyperactivity were commonly reported mealtime behaviors in students. The
findings suggest that obesity is common in children and youth with ASD in Kuwait.
Monitoring and modification of dietary habits and mealtime behavior should be
implemented toward tackling the problem of overweight and obesity in this population.