EXPLORING THE REASONS WHY SCHOOL STUDENTS EAT OR SKIP BREAKFAST.

Background Breakfast is considered to be the most important meal of the day. It provides the essential nutrients needed for the day's activities. Aims To determine the prevalence of breakfast consumption and to assess the nutritional status of students aged 12-18 years. Methods A school-based study carried out between September and October 2014 involved 1,303 school students from grades 7 to 12, aged 12 to 18 years, who completed a questionnaire on breakfast consumption. The chi-square test was used. An odds ratio and 95% confidence interval determined the predictive factors for skipping breakfast. Results The prevalence of breakfast consumption was 52.3%, statistically decreasing with age. Adjusted logistic regression analysis reflected a statistically high consumption among 12-15 year olds, those with highly educated mothers and those with low family income. Conclusion For the target groups at risk, a community and school-based health education programme, conducted by school nurses and other healthcare providers, would be beneficial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]