Assessing Childhood Obesity Knowledge and Attitudes Among Syrian Refugees in Al Za’atari Camp

Abstract Background Childhood obesity is a rising global concern, especially among conflict-affected populations. In settings like Al Za'atari Refugee Camp, limited nutrition, food aid dependency, and low physical activity increase obesity risk. Combined with low health literacy, these factors contribute to the double burden of malnutrition. However, little is known about how displaced families understand childhood obesity. Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge,attitudes and practice of Syrian refugee parents and their children (aged 10-18 years) concerning childhood obesity in the Al Za'atari Refugee Camp, in order to inform the design of culturally sensitive and evidence-based public health strategies. Methods A cross-sectional quantitative survey was conducted among 200 Syrian refugee households (N = 400; 200 parents and 200 children). A structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to childhood obesity. The questionnaire was administered using the KOBO Toolbox system. Statistical analysis was performed using linear regression models in STATA. Results The mean knowledge score was 34% among parents and 55% among children. The majority of children were classified as having normal or overweight, with a small percentage categorized as obese. A significant positive association was observed between parental and child knowledge scores (β = 0.19; 95% CI: 0.15-0.25). Additionally, higher parental knowledge was significantly associated with lower child BMI z-scores (β = -0.01; 95% CI: -0.02 to -0.002). Conclusions Despite children demonstrating relatively higher awareness, improved parental understanding was significantly linked to healthier child BMI outcomes. Public health interventions should therefore prioritize culturally appropriate strategies that actively engage parents to foster healthier behaviors and reduce obesity risk among displaced children. Key messages • Engaging parents is essential in addressing childhood obesity in refugee contexts. • Culturally tailored health education can improve knowledge and reduce obesity risk among displaced children.