Anthropometrics, Eating Attitudes, and Body Image in Asians and Caucasians

Abstract

Anthropometries, eating attitudes, fear of fat, and body image were assessed in 25 Asian and 91 Caucasian college women between the ages of 18 and 29. Height and weight were measured and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) was calculated by dividing waist circumference (measured 1 inch above the umbilicus) by hip circumference (measured at the maximum girth over the buttocks). Percent body fat was estimated from the sum of 3 skinfolds using Lange calipers. Eating disorder tendencies were assessed using the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT) for which a score of 30 or higher indicates weight preoccupation and an increased risk for developing an eating disorder. Goldbarb's Fear of Fat Scale was used to determine fear of fatness. Subjects were asked to identify the silhouette on the Canadian Dietetic Association's BMI Silhouette drawings (with BMI values deleted) that most closely represented their body as well as the ideal body. Weight and height were significantly higher in Caucasian women compared to Asian women (p<.0001). There were no significant differences between the two groups in BMI, percent body fat, or WHR. There was no difference in EAT scores between Asians and Caucasians. EAT scores for Asians and Caucasians were 17±10 and 17±13, respectively. Eleven percent of the Asians and 18 percent of the Caucasians scored above 30 on the EAT test. The range of EAT scores for all subjects was 1 to 59. Fear of fat scores were significantly higher for Asians than Caucasians (p<.01). Asians and Caucasians both picked the silhouette representing a BMI of 18 as the ideal and 20 as their perceived BMI, whereas actual BMIs for Asians and Caucasians were 22.1±8.9 and 23.0±2.9, respectively. In conclusion, Asian and Caucasian subjects had similar body composition and EAT scores. Both Caucasians and Asians chose an ideal BMI silhouette that is classified as underweight and associated with increased mortality risk. In addition, both groups tended to underestimate their actual BMI. This study demonstrated that Asians exhibit a greater fear of fat and a similar tendency for eating disorders compared to Caucasians.