The development of health and performance-related physical fitness components during the early stages of life has an important impact on maintaining a sustainable level of physical fitness and improving health outcomes in the future, according to many studies. This study aims to analyze anthropometric parameters and physical activity levels in Albanian adolescents aged 16-18 years, making a comparison between urban and rural areas. Physical activity during this period of life is essential for physical and psychological well-being, as well as for the development of executive and cognitive functions. The study included 1,147 students from different schools in Albania and relied on mixed research methods, combining quantitative and qualitative analyses. Anthropometric measurements were performed according to international standards, including height, weight, and body mass index (BMI). The results show that 68.2% of the participants had a normal BMI, while the prevalence of underweight was higher in rural areas (20.6%) than in urban areas (16.8%). Meanwhile, overweight and obesity were more prevalent in urban areas. The findings suggest the need for policies focused on promoting physical activity and health education in both areas to ensure healthy youth development.
Monitoring of anthropometric parameters of 16-18 Year Olds
Authors
- Rovena Elmazi Faculty of Physical Activity and Recreation, Department of Sport and Turism Management Sports University of Tirana, Albania 1001.
- Entela Kushta Faculty of Physical Activity and Recreation, Department of Sport and Turism Management Sports University of Tirana, Albania 1001.
- Ferdinand Mara Faculty of Physical Activity and Recreation, Departament of Physical Activity, Recreation and Tourism, Sports University of Tirana, Albania 1001.
- AnduelaLile AnduelaLile Faculty of Physical Activity and Recreation, Department of Sport and Turism Management Sports University of Tirana, Albania 1001.
- Junida Pogoni Faculty of Physical Activity and Recreation, Departament of Movemnet and Health, Sports University of Tirana, Albania 1001.
- Jorida Çobaj Faculty of Physical Activity and Recreation, Departament of Physical Activity, Recreation and Tourism, Sports University of Tirana, Albania 1001.
- Klajdi Xhebexhiu Faculty of Physical Activity and Recreation, Departament of Physical Activity, Recreation and Tourism, Sports University of Tirana, Albania 1001.
