Relationship between Body Mass Index and Health and Occupational Performance among Law Enforcement Officers, Firefighters, and Military Personnel: A Systematic Review

Abstract

The prevalence of overweight and obesity among tactical populations is estimated at 70%–75%, which may negatively impact health and performance. The relationship between BMI and health and performance is well established among the general population, however, literature on such relationships among tactical populations has yet to be reviewed and evaluated. The purpose of this study was to systematically review available literature on the relationship between BMI and health and occupational performance among law enforcement officer, firefighters, and military personnel. After reviewing the literature, 27 articles were included. Nine studies found BMI was positively associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors. Studies involving BMI and cancer were lacking. One study found BMI was positively associated with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) risk. Five studies on occupational/physical performance and 12 studies on injury found a higher BMI was often indicative of decreased performance and increased risk of injury in general, but protective against stress fractures. Overall, higher BMI was often associated with negative health and performance outcomes among tactical populations, especially when beyond the overweight classification. Public health practitioners should focus efforts on improving nutrition and physical activity to promote a healthy BMI among these individuals.