RELATIONSHIP OF C-REACTIVE PROTEIN WITH DIET, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND ANTHROPOMETRIC MEASURMENT IN SCHOOL GOING FEMALE CHILDREN

Abstract

Background C-reactive protein (CRP) is a biomarker of systemic inflammation that has been linked to obesity, dietary patterns, and cardiometabolic risk. Children are particularly vulnerable to lifestyle-related changes in diet and physical activity, which may influence CRP levels and long-term health outcomes.

Objectives This study aimed to assess the relationship between plasma CRP levels, dietary intake, physical activity, and anthropometric measurements among school-going girls in District Swabi, Pakistan.

Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted among 80 randomly selected healthy girls aged 12–17 years. Anthropometric measurements were recorded using standardized procedures. Dietary intake was assessed through 24-hour dietary recall and food frequency questionnaires. Physical activity was measured using the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (PAQ-C) and Adolescents (PAQ-A). After an overnight fast, venous blood samples were collected in EDTA tubes for CRP analysis. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, independent sample t-tests, Pearson correlation, and chi-square tests.

Results The mean age, weight, and BMI of participants were 14.53 ± 1.73 years, 46.51 ± 4.59 kg, and 22.48 ± 4.34 kg/m², respectively. Overall, 12.5% were obese, 15.0% overweight, and 61.3% within the normal BMI range. Girls categorized as “at risk” based on CRP levels had significantly higher mean weight (48.15 ± 4.29 kg), BMI (24.50 ± 4.67 kg/m²), waist circumference (81.51 ± 11.43 cm), and waist-to-hip ratio (0.89 ± 0.08) compared to the normal group (p < 0.01). Dietary analysis revealed higher caloric intake, fats, and cholesterol in the at-risk group, whereas fiber and vitamin A intake were significantly higher in the normal group (p = 0.005). Physical activity showed no significant association with CRP levels.

Conclusion Elevated CRP levels were directly associated with adiposity and dietary fat/cholesterol intake, while fiber and vitamin A intake demonstrated protective associations. These findings underscore the importance of early dietary and lifestyle interventions to reduce inflammation-related health risks in adolescent populations.