Fatores de risco e proteção contra doenças crônicas não transmissíveis entre adolescentes

Objective: To know the prevalence of risk factors for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) among adolescents assisted by the municipal program “Health and Prevention at School” (Saude e Prevencao na Escola – SPE). Method: A cross-sectional study was carried out with students aged 10 to 17 years from six schools located in the municipality of Imperatriz, Maranhao, Brazil, between October 2014 and April 2015. Anthropometric measures were collected at the school and variables related to eating habits and lifestyle were investigated using a self-administered questionnaire. Data were compared between genders using the Chi-squared test. Results: A total of 473 students aged 10-17 years were assessed. Overweight and obesity occurred in 13.3% (63) of the sample. The consumption of foods such as rice, beans and fruits is associated with protective factors. There was a higher consumption of these foods among girls (p=0.001) and physical activity was prevalent among boys (p=0.0001). There are no differences in exposure to cigarettes, illicit drugs and alcohol between genders. Conclusion: The study population presents different patterns of exposure to risk and protective factors and there is an evident need for educational actions in the school environment conducted by SPE professionals and other school managers.