Abstract
Anthropometrics are a set of direct quantitative measurements of the human body’s external dimensions, which can be used as indirect measures of body composition. Due to a number of limitations of conventional manual techniques for the collection of body measurements, advanced systems using three-dimensional (3D) scanners are currently being employed, despite being a relatively new technique. A systematic review was carried out using Pubmed, Medline and the Cochrane Library to assess whether 3D scanners offer reproducible, reliable and accurate data with respect to anthropometrics. Although significant differences were found, 3D measurements correlated strongly with measurements made by conventional anthropometry, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and air displacement plethysmography (ADP), among others. In most studies (61.1%), 3D scanners were more accurate than these other techniques; in fact, these scanners presented excellent accuracy or reliability. 3D scanners allow automated, quick and easy measurements of different body tissues. Moreover, they seem to provide reproducible, reliable and accurate data that correlate well with the other techniques used.
Highlights
Anthropometrics are a set of direct quantitative measurements of the human body’s external dimensions, which can be used as indirect measures of body composition
After eliminating duplicates (n = 45), titles and abstracts were read, and a further 2662 articles were eliminated based on the exclusion criteria
Three-dimensional scanners appear to be a good technology for body assessments, allowing automated, quick and easy body measurements, such as circumferences, body volumes and fat mass, among others
Summary
Anthropometrics are a set of direct quantitative measurements of the human body’s external dimensions, which can be used as indirect measures of body composition. [1]. Anthropometrics are a set of direct quantitative measurements of the human body’s external dimensions, which can be used as indirect measures of body composition. The most important elements of anthropometry include height, weight, body mass index (BMI), body circumferences (waist, hip and limbs) and skinfold thickness [1]. These measures are of great interest to dietitians-nutritionists, health professionals and sports professionals because of their clinical utility. These measurements represent diagnostic criteria for obesity, which significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes mellitus, among other disease. These measurements can be used as a basis for measuring physical fitness and fitness progress [2]
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