Weight status perception and weight loss intention among urban youth

Aim: We explored associations of weight perception with measured weight status and weight loss intention among urban youth. Methods: This community surveillance project included 317 youth (10-19 years, 64% black) who answered YRBSS questions and underwent measurements of height and weight. Results: Weight misperception was observed among 47% of participants; 41% underestimated and 6% overestimated their weight status. Among youth with overweight and obesity, however, 72% misperceived their weight status; those with accurate perception were more likely to report trying to lose weight. Conclusion: Addressing weight status misperceptions may be essential when advocating lifestyle behavior change to promote healthful body weight among youth. (C) 2019 Asia Oceania Association for the Study of Obesity. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.