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Introduction: Recently, an increasing trend in the prevalence of pediatric metabolic syndrome (PMS) among school-age children has been documented in different parts of India. There is lack of data on the prevalence of PMS and its associated risk factors among school-age children living in district Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. Hence, to fill in the gap in the existing knowledge, the present study was conducted. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted during 2015-2016. Thirty clusters (schools) were identified from a list of all schools using population proportionate to size sampling methodology. From each school, 70 children in the age group of 10-16 years were selected. Data was collected on the sociodemographic characteristics, anthropometry, waist circumference, blood pressure, and physical activity. Fasting venous blood samples were collected for estimation of blood glucose, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein levels. Results: The prevalence of PMS using International Diabetes Federation classification was 3.3% and using modified-adult treatment panel classification criteria was 3.5%. Risk factors identified to be associated with PMS among school-age children were (i) male gender, (ii) high family monthly income, (iii) sedentary lifestyle, (iv) consumption of evening snack, (v) television/computer viewing, and (vi) motorized transportation for commuting to school. Conclusion: The PMS prevalence was 3.3% in school-age children residing in District Shimla. There is a need to formulate interventions to prevent and correct metabolic syndrome among them for reducing early onset of cardiovascular disease during adulthood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Vitamin D is important for bone development in children. A high prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) has been documented from different parts of India. However, limited data are available on VDD among children residing at high altitude region of country. Objectives: To assess the prevalence of VDD and associated risk factors among children in the age group of 6-18 years in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the year 2014-2015. A total of 626 children in the age group of 6-18 years were enrolled from 30 clusters which were identified using population proportionate to size sampling method. A minimum of 20 children in the age group of 6-18 years per cluster were selected using random number tables. The data on socioeconomic status, physical activity, sunlight exposure, and biochemical parameters of bone and mineral metabolism were assessed. Results: Ninety-three percent of school-age children were found Vitamin D deficient as per serum 25(OH) D levels of <20 ng/ml. The prevalence was significantly higher among females. Conclusion: A high prevalence of VDD was found in children residing in high altitude region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]