Relationship Between Sleep Duration and Obesity in Children Aged 6-12 Years and Adolescents Aged 13-18 Years: A Meta-Analysis.

Studies have reported an association between sleep duration and obesity in children and adolescents worldwide. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between sleep duration and obesity in children aged 6-12 years and adolescents aged 13-18 years using a meta-analysis approach. Databases, including PubMed, Proquest, Google Scholar, EBSCO, and Web of Science, were searched for articles published between 2010 and 2024. Data analysis was conducted using the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) software. Of the 1116 articles identified, 17 were systematically reviewed, and 10 were included in the meta-analysis. The findings revealed a significant association between short sleep duration and obesity in children and adolescents, with a combined odds ratio (OR) of 1.25 (95% CI: 1.12, 1.42). Subgroup analysis by age demonstrated similar results to the combined OR. In children aged 6-12 years, the combined OR was 1.20 (95% CI: 1.08-1.42), whereas in adolescents aged 13-18 years, it was 1.38 (95% CI: 1.18-1.63). These results indicate that improving sleep quality and promoting healthy eating habits among children and adolescents may reduce the risk of obesity. Further training programs, interventions, and research are recommended.