Parents' perception of overweight and obesity and associated risk factors among their school-age children in Jordan

Background: Childhood obesity is a significant public health issue in Jordan. This study examines parental perceptions of overweight and obesity among school-age children in Jordan. Methods: A non-experimental, quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional design was used. Data were collected from a convenience sample of 102 parents from two governmental and two private schools in Amman, Jordan. Results: Parental perception/awareness of obesity was considered partially aware, with a total score of 56.98 (standard deviation ± 11.69). Independent sample T-tests showed significant differences in perceptions based on the respondent's relationship with the child ( p = 0.04). One-way ANOVA results highlighted significant differences in parental perceptions based on father's age (p = 0.02), mother's age ( p = 0.05), family income ( p < 0.001) and frequency of junk food consumption ( p = 0.02). Conclusion: The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to improve parental awareness and involvement in preventing and managing childhood obesity in Jordan.