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Obesity, recognized as one of the most significant public health threats, has shown an alarming increase in recent years. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of obesity and the factors influencing physical activity among high school female students in Khash City, Sistan and Baluchestan Province, Iran. This descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 200 high school female students in Khash City during the academic year 2020-2021. Data was collected using a three-part questionnaire, including a checklist for measuring height, weight, and Body Mass Index (BMI), demographic questions, and the standardized Physical Activity Questionnaire for Adolescents (PAQ-C). The collected data were analyzed using SPSS software version 21, descriptive statistics, and the Chi-square test at a significance level of 0.05. Results revealed that 89 (44.5%) of students skipped breakfast in their daily diet, while 139 (69.5%) consumed fast food. Additionally, 170 (85%) had never received nutrition education, and 165 (82.5%) exhibited low physical activity levels. The Chi-square test identified significant associations between physical activity level and parental income (p=0.049), as well as hours of mobile phone use and television viewing (p<0.001). However, the Chi-square test showed no significant relationship between physical activity level and obesity, parental education level, BMI, or school type (p˃0.05). Socio-economic factors, along with individual behaviors such as digital device usage, significantly influence the physical activity levels of adolescents. Implementing policies aimed at providing affordable sports facilities and promoting a healthy lifestyle can be effective in reducing obesity. Moreover, the development and integration of educational programs in schools to enhance nutritional awareness and emphasize the importance of physical activity are essential.

Keywords: Obesity Prevalence, Students' Physical Activity, Socioeconomic Factors

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