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Background and Objectives: Eating habits established during childhood affect health in later life. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a high prevalence of obesity in adolescents and adults; however, data on the health of preschool children are scarce. This study assessed the weight status and dietary habits of Emirati and non-Emirati children attending nurseries in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Methods and Study Design: Weight and height were measured in children aged 18 months-4 years. Z scores for height-for-age (HAZ), weight-for-age (WAZ), and BMI-for-age (BAZ) were calculated based on WHO protocols. Parents completed a questionnaire regarding demographics and food frequency. Results: A total of 203 children participated. Abnormal anthropometric status (z scores of <-2 or >2) for WAZ was indicated in 12.8% of Emirati children versus 1.4% of non-Emirati children (p=0.008) and for BAZ in 19.9% of Emirati children versus 8.4% of non-Emirati children (p<0.05). Emirati children exhibited higher prevalences of malnutrition (4.3% vs 1.4%), wasting (11.5% vs 2.8%), and overweight (8.5% vs 4.2%) than non-Emirati children and consumed discretionary calorie foods and typical components of Emirati cuisine (rice, fish, and pulses) significantly more often than non-Emirati children. Conclusions: Similar to findings in other countries undergoing economic transition, an indication of a double burden of disease was revealed in children attending nurseries in Abu Dhabi. Malnutrition and overnutrition were represented, especially among Emirati children, and were seemingly related to lifestyle rather than genetics. Therefore, policies focusing on child health interventions are required.
Key Words: nutrition, dietary habits, United Arab Emirates, preschool children
INTRODUCTION
The preschool age is a critical stage that influences a child's physical and cognitive health and development. Inadequate feeding and suboptimal growth in the early years of life may lead to growth failure, malnutrition, and compromised academic performance in addition to an increased risk of developing non communicable diseases later in life.1-5 Similarly, overnutrition is associated with increased risks of chronic diseases. Obese children are more likely to become obese adults and have a higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes as adults.6-9
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has undergone considerable cultural and economic development over the preceding few decades, resulting in marked shifts in lifestyle and a notable nutritional transition among its citizens.10 In addition, the country's economic growth...