Applicability of video-based training program on inter- and intra-observer variation in common anthropometric parameters measurement in adults

Abstract

Background: Measurement of simple anthropometric parameters (e.g., weight, height) helps in estimation of degree of obesity in clinical and outdoor settings. However, inter- and intra-observer variation in measurement may contribute to bias in measured parameters. These should be minimized to get reliable data for patient management and researches. Aim: The aim of the study was to find out inter- and intra-observer variation in measurement of common anthropometric parameters by fitness trainer and to check the applicability of a video-based training program on change in variation. Materials and Methods: Two observers measured weight, height, waist circumference (WC), and hip circumference (HC) in 32 adult males on two occasions in forenoon. After a video based training, observers measured same parameters in same sample on two occasions. Inter- and intra-observer variations were expressed in terms of technical error of measurement (TEM), %TEM, and reliability by coefficient of reliability (R). Results: Interobserver variation was higher than intraobserver variation in all measurements expressed in %TEM. Before the training, measurement of waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) showed highest %TEM (2.437) followed by HC (1.716 %TEM). Weight measurement showed lowest %TEM (0.075). After the training, all measurements showed a decrease in %TEM. Waist-to-hip ratio showed highest error (1.598%TEM) followed by HC (1.396%TEM). All measurements showed reliability coefficient >0.98 both before and after the training. Conclusion: In measurement of weight, height, WC, and HC, interobserver variation is higher than intraobserver variation. Variation in circumference measurement is more than length measurement. Simple video-based training program helps in lowering both inter- and intra-observer variation.