Perception of weight status in U.S. children and adolescents aged 8-15 years, 2005-2012.

Abstract

Childhood obesity is a major public health problem associated with many adverse health outcomes in adulthood (1). During 2011–2012, nearly 17% of children and adolescents were obese (2). Weight status misperception occurs when the child’s perception of their weight status differs from their actual weight status based on measured height and weight. Accurate weight status self-perception has been linked to appropriate weight control behaviors in youth. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data for children and adolescents aged 8–15 years offers an opportunity to examine weight perception status in this age group.