J Prev Med Public Health.  2014 May;47(3):158-168.

Variation in Meal-skipping Rates of Korean Adolescents According to Socio-economic Status: Results of the Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey

• Hong S
• Bae HC
• Kim HS
• Park EC

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
To identify and evaluate the trend of meal-skipping rates among Korean adolescents with their contributing causes and the influence of household income level on meal skipping.
METHODS
Using 2008, 2010, and 2012 data from the Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey of 222 662 students, a cross-sectional study with subgroup analysis was performed. We calculated odds ratios for skipping each meal 5 or more times in a week by household socio-economic status using a multiple logistic regression model. The secular change in the meal-skipping rates by the students' family affluence scale was analyzed by comparing the meal-skipping students within each subgroup and odds ratios for the same event over time.
RESULTS
Through 2008 to 2012, most of the meal-skipping rates generally showed a continuous increase or were almost unchanged in both sexes, except for breakfast skipping in several subgroups. Students in low-income households not living with both parents had the highest meal-skipping rates and odds ratios for frequent meal skipping. In a time-series subgroup analysis, the overall odds ratios for the same event increased during 2008 to 2012, with a slight reduction in the gap between low and higher income levels with regard to meal skipping during 2010 to 2012.
CONCLUSIONS
Household socio-economic status and several other factors had a significant influence on Korean adolescent meal-skipping rates. Although the gap in eating behavior associated with household socio-economic differences is currently decreasing, further study and appropriate interventions are needed.

Keyword

Meal skipping; Social class; Adolescent; Eating habits

MeSH Terms

Adolescent
Adolescent Behavior
Body Mass Index
Cross-Sectional Studies
Data Collection
*Feeding Behavior
Female
Humans
Internet
Logistic Models
Male
Odds Ratio
Republic of Korea
*Social Class
Socioeconomic Factors
Stress, Psychological