The Association Between Schoolwork Pressure and Overweight/Obesity in Swedish Schoolchildren Across Different Socioeconomic Groups

Background In Sweden, schoolwork pressure and adolescent overweight/obesity prevalence have increased in recent decades. This study investigates the relationship between schoolwork pressure and weight status, considering the moderating role of socioeconomic background. Methods We analysed pooled cross‐sectional data from 12 154 adolescents in the nationally representative Swedish Health Behaviour in School‐aged Children surveys (2013/14, 2017/18, 2021/22). Logistic regression models examined the association between schoolwork pressure and self‐reported overweight/obesity status (standardised by IOTF cut‐offs) across socioeconomic backgrounds assessed by the Family Affluence Scale (FAS) and perceived family wealth (PFW). We calculated population attributable fractions to quantify schoolwork pressure's contribution to overweight/obesity. Results 37% of students reported high schoolwork pressure, and 14% had overweight or obesity. High schoolwork pressure was associated with increased odds of overweight/obesity (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.03–1.32). Adolescents experiencing high pressure from low socioeconomic backgrounds FAS (OR 2.10, 95% CI 1.60–2.76) or PFW (OR 1.82, 95% CI 1.22–2.71) had the highest odds of overweight/obesity. Approximately 5% of overweight/obesity cases were attributable to high schoolwork pressure. Conclusions High schoolwork pressure increases the likelihood of adolescent overweight/obesity, particularly for disadvantaged socioeconomic groups. Implementing policies to reduce academic stress and providing targeted support are essential for promoting healthier outcomes.