Parental Awareness of Musculoskeletal Health Consequences Due to Overweight Bag in Primary School Students.

Background: Musculoskeletal discomfort is high in school going children in Kolhapur. The primary trigger for the discomfort is heavy school bags as identified through previous studies. Despite the Government of Maharashtra’s resolution to limit the school bag weight, a significant load reduction is lacking. Here we assessed the awareness and corrective measures regarding the weight of the school bag in parents and school authorities in primary school children. Materials and Methods: In this Cross sectional, prospective study, five schools, namely—A, B, C, D, E were selected based on feasibility. Two hundred and one consenting parents of students belonging to class 1 (6-7 year) from each school filled out a pre-tested questionnaire to assess their awareness. Statistical analysis of the response was calculated through chi-square test (P<0.05). Results: Predominant weight carried by school children exceeded 10% of their body weight (mean total weight: 3.891 1.96 kg; gross weight: 3.014 1.63 kg; n=154). Prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort was 52.7%. Style of carrying the school bag significantly influenced development of discomfort (P=0.002). School authorities (n=5) and parents were aware of the Governmen t resolution (n=183). But parents neither considered the weight of the bag at the time of purchase (n=148) nor helped their children pack their school bags (n=137). Conclusion: While there is increased awareness in parents and school authorities, there is lack of action. Corrective measures in terms of behavioural attitudes in parents and school authorities is necessary to bring about the expected changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]