Applicability of various body weight status classifications for the caries-free 3–6-year-old school going children of Mathura city

Abstract

Background: In a global perspective, there is a requirement of a universal classification system to monitor the worldwide childhood obesity. Confusion concerning which classification system to use on national levels complicates monitoring of the development of the obesity and comparisons between various studies. Objectives: This study highlights the specific problems associated with body mass index (BMI) classifications, compares the body weight status according to Indian, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and international classifications, and determines their applicability for the caries free 3-6 years old children of Mathura city. Materials and Methods: A total of 150 children aged caries free 3–6 years without contributing medical history from Mathura city were selected for this study. Weight (kg) and height (m) measurements were done; BMI (kg/m2) and the body weight statuses were evaluated using Indian-, CDC-, and international-based classifications. Chi-square test was used to compare the body weight status derived from these classification systems. Results: The majority of the caries free children (96%) were classified as underweight according to BMI-based Indian and international classifications. About 59.3% and 36% of children were classified as underweight and normal body weight status according to CDC classification. There was significant difference observed in the body weight status derived from the BMI-based Indian with the CDC classification. Conclusions: Majority of the disease-free (systemic and dental caries free) 3–6-year-old children were observed to be underweight. The BMI-based Indian and international classifications are applicable for the evaluation of body weight statuses for these children of Mathura city.