Anthropometric Indices as Predictive Screening Tools for Obesity in Adults; The Need to Define Sex-Specific Cut-Off Points for Anthropometric Indices

Abstract

Due to the lack of full agreement as to the best indicators for obesity diagnosis and type, the aim of this study was to assess the comparative classification capabilities with the use of BIA results and selected anthropometric indices in individuals aged 20–60 years. This was a cross-sectional observational study among 368 Caucasian subjects aged 20–60 years. Body size and four skinfolds measurement were taken. To assess individual body composition, the bioelectrical impedance (BIA) method was applied. The results of fat mass (FM, kg) and fat-free mass (FFM, kg) were taken to calculate FM/FFM, fat mass index (FMI), and fat free mass index (FFMI). Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was employed to compare the predictive power of different anthropometric indices in differentiating the classification of obesity in adults. The results of this study demonstrated and confirmed the need to change the approach to commonly used indicators such as BMI (body mass index) or WHtR (waist-to-height ratio), which should lead to the establishment of new criteria for the diagnosis of obesity that will also be sex-specific, in the adult population. The measurement of body fat content should become a generally accepted indicator for effective diagnosis, as well as for screening, of obesity.