A Comparative Study of Body Fat Percentage in Urban and Rural Male Adolescents Aged 13–14 in Klang District, Malaysia

Zarizi Ab Rahman, Azlan Ahmad Kamal, Mohamad Nizam Bin Mohamed Shapie, Krisnanda Dwi Dwi Apriyanto, Sabda Hussain As Shafi

Abstract


Adolescent obesity continues to rise globally due to lifestyle changes, dietary patterns, and technological influences. This study aimed to compare body fat percentage among 13- and 14-year-old male adolescents in urban and rural secondary schools in the Klang District, Selangor, Malaysia. Using a comparative design, 150 students (80 urban and 70 rural) were assessed for body fat percentage through BMI-based calculations. Two-way ANOVA analysis indicated no significant differences between locations or age groups. The findings suggest that variations in body fat are more strongly associated with physiological development and pubertal stages than with chronological age or geographic setting. Similarities in school environments, nutritional habits, and technology access across both areas may also explain the results. The study recommends expanding the age range, applying longitudinal designs, and integrating qualitative approaches to better understand lifestyle factors. These implications highlight the need for public health programs that promote physical activity and health education to reduce sedentary behaviors among Malaysian adolescents.

Keywords


Adolescent Obesity; Body Fat Percenta; Pubertal Development; Body Mass Index; Physical Activity

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References


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DOI: https://doi.org/10.17509/jpess.v5i2.95933

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