Lifestyle Factors and Anthropometric Obesity Indicators in Libyan Individuals with Down Syndrome

• Amani Tayeh

  Department of Biomedical Science, Libyan Academy-Aljabal Al-akther Branch, Al-Bayda, Libya.

  Author

Down syndrome (DS) is one of the most common chromosomal disorders and is associated with obesity, reduced physical fitness, and metabolic complications. This study aimed to compare dietary habits, physical activity (PA), and anthropometric obesity indicators between Libyan individuals with DS and healthy controls, and to examine the associations between lifestyle factors and obesity-related anthropometric measures among individuals with DS.  A cross-sectional study was conducted at two specialized DS centers in Al-Bayda, Libya. The study included 37 individuals with DS and 42 healthy controls. Anthropometric measurements, including weight, height, waist circumference (WC), and abdominal skinfold thickness (ASFT), were obtained. Body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) were subsequently calculated. Physical activity levels were assessed, and dietary habits were evaluated using a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). PA levels differed significantly between groups (p < 0.001). Sedentary behavior was more prevalent among individuals with DS (54.1%) than controls (9.5%), whereas moderate and active PA levels were higher among controls. Significant dietary differences were observed for milk, canned juice, and dessert consumption, with higher intake reported among individuals with DS. Among participants with DS, PA was negatively associated with WHtR (r = −0.363, p = 0.027) and ASFT (r = −0.372, p = 0.023). In contrast, canned juice and dessert consumption showed positive associations with BMI and WHtR.  Lifestyle-related behaviors, particularly low PA and unhealthy dietary habits, may contribute to obesity risk among individuals with DS. Promoting healthier nutrition and increased physical activity may help reduce obesity-related health risks in this population.

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