Hip Circumference Research Articles

Body composition-derived abdominal circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, and waist-to-height ratio cut-offs for Ethiopian adults in Northwest Ethiopia, 2023.

Central and general obesity are commonly measured using tools like waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR). However, the universally recognized cutoffs for these measures may be inadequate for individuals of Ethiopian descent. Due to the lack of universally applicable cutoffs, studies recommend tailoring the optimal screening thresholds to each population's specific characteristics. Therefore, this study aimed to determine body composition-based WC, WHR, and WHtR cutoffs for the healthy adult population of Ethiopia. A population based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Amhara region of Ethiopia from June to August 2023, collecting anthropometric and body composition data from 838 adult participants. Data were analyzed using Stata, and MedCalc software. The cut-off values were determined using ROC analysis, and performance was assessed using area under the curve (AUC), Youden index, sensitivity, and specificity. The optimal cut-off values for WC, HC, WHR, and WHtR to define obesity in men were 85.0cm, 93.5cm, 0.89, and 0.53 respectively. Correspondingly, these values in women were 81.1cm, 97.2cm, 0.84, and 0.5. These cutoff values showed the highest effectiveness in defining obesity especially for WC and WHtR. The new proposed cutoff values for waist circumference, hip circumference, and waist-to-height ratio had sensitivity ranging 76-93% and specificity of 83-94% in accurately identifying obesity. The current study also determined the cut-off values for underweight, normal weight, and overweight body weight categories. Accordingly, for men, the WC cut-offs were: ≤ 74.55cm (underweight), 74.56-78.95cm (normal), and 79.0-85.0cm (overweight). For women, the cut-offs were: ≤ 68.25cm (underweight), 68.26-79.59cm (normal), and 79.60-81.10cm (overweight). The WHtR thresholds were: ≤0.43 (underweight), 0.44-0.47 (normal), and 0.48-0.53 (overweight) in men; ≤0.43 (underweight), 0.44-0.50 (normal), and 0.50-0.51 (overweight) in women. The findings indicate that the WC, WHR, and WHtR cutoff values for defining obesity in Ethiopian adults are lower than international standards. The newly proposed cutoff values showed improved sensitivity and specificity, suggesting their potential diagnostic relevance. Considering these country-specific cutoffs may be beneficial for clinical practice and obesity-related research in Ethiopia.

Body shapes of multiple anthropometric traits and all-cause and cause-specific mortality in the UK Biobank

Background: Individual traditional anthropometric measures like body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference may not fully capture the relation of adiposity to mortality. Investigating multi-trait body shapes could overcome this limitation, deepening insights into adiposity and mortality. Methods: Using UK Biobank data from 462,301 adults (40-69 years at baseline: 2006-2010), we derived four body shapes from principal component analysis on BMI, height, weight, waist and hip circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio. We then used multivariable-adjusted Cox proportional hazard models to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for associations between body shapes and mortality for principal component scores of +1 and -1. Results: During 6,114,399 person-years of follow-up, 28,807 deaths occurred. A generally obese body shape exhibited a U-shaped mortality association. A tall and centrally obese body shape showed increased mortality risk in a dose-response manner (comparing a score of +1 and 0: HR=1.16; 95% CI=1.14-1.18). Conversely, tall and lean or athletic body shapes displayed no increased mortality risks when comparing a score of +1 and 0, with positive relations for the comparison between a score of -1 and 0 in these shapes (short and stout shape: HR=1.12, 95% CI=1.10-1.14; non-athletic shape: HR=1.15, 95% CI=1.13-1.17). Conclusions: Four distinct body shapes, reflecting heterogeneous expressions of obesity, were differentially associated with all-cause and cause-specific mortality. Multi-trait body shapes may refine our insights into the associations between different adiposity subtypes and mortality.

Feasibility, safety and preliminary efficacy of telehealth-delivered group exercise for people with type 2 diabetes: A pilot trial.

Several barriers can preclude people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) from in-person exercise session participation. Telehealth may be an alternative mode of service delivery to increase uptake. We evaluated the feasibility, safety and preliminary efficacy of delivering group exercise via telehealth for people with T2D. Sixteen people with T2D (age 59.9 ± 12.7 years, 63% male, duration of T2D 11.5 ± 11.1 years) underwent an 8-week telehealth-delivered group exercise intervention. Weekly supervised sessions incorporated whole-body aerobic and resistance exercises, followed by education. Feasibility was evaluated by recruitment, enrolment, attendance and attrition rates, the practicality of telehealth delivery, and participant feedback. Adverse events were monitored throughout (safety). Preliminary efficacy was determined from changes in glycaemic control, body composition, blood pressure, exercise capacity, neuromuscular strength/fitness, quality of life and physical activity levels. The agreement/reliability of in-person clinician-measured versus telehealth-supervised participant-self-measured assessments was also evaluated. Feasibility was supported by high attendance (97.1%) and low attrition (81%). All (100%) participants reported they would participate in telehealth-delivered exercise interventions in the future and would recommend them to other people with T2D. No serious adverse events were reported. There were improvements in hip circumference (Cohen's d -0.50), diastolic blood pressure (-0.75), exercise capacity (1.72), upper body strength (1.14), grip strength (0.58), health-related quality of life (0.76-0.81) and self-reported physical activity (1.14). Participant-self-measured assessment of body weight, 2-min step test and 30-sec sit-to-stand test were deemed acceptable. Telehealth-delivered group exercise appears feasible, safe and efficacious for people with T2D. These findings warrant further exploration in a powered trial. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12622000379718).

The Association between Paediatric Obesity, Anthropometric Parameters and Physiological Traits among Rural Schoolchildren in Alice Location, Eastern Cape, South Africa

Background: Obesity is an epidemic non-communicable disease in South Africa (SA). Few data exist on rural schoolchildren. This study presented the association between paediatric obesity, anthropometric parameters and physiological traits in schoolchildren in the Alice Location of Raymond Mhlaba Municipality, South Africa. Methods: The sum of 305 schoolchildren including girls 146; boys 159 between 5 – 7 years old were enrolled. Body mass index (BMI) specific for gender and age was used to describe overweight and obesity. Systolic/Diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP) was ≥ 90th percentile for gender and age. An aneroid sphygmomanometer was used to measure blood pressure (BP). Results: 15.75% of girls were overweight compared to 10.69% of boys while 16.35% of boys were obese compared to 10.27% of girls. Pre-hypertension was detected in both girls (2.0%) and boys (0.3%). SBP and DBP were significantly (P<0.05) associated with body mass, stature, BMI, hip and waist circumference (HC & WC), the sum of skinfolds, fat-mass (FM), fat-free mass (FFM), and fat-free mass index (FFMI). Conclusion: Overweight, obesity and pre-hypertension are predominant amongst rural SA schoolchildren living in Alice location. Routine check-up and control of excessive weight gain in schoolchildren is crucial for early prevention of potential cardiovascular diseases in the future.

Prevalence of Hypertension and Prehypertension among Young Adult Students of Midnapore Town, Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal, India

Background: Hypertension is one of the most prevalent public health concerns and also one of the prominent factors in affecting the cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), coronary heart diseases (CHDs). It has been termed as “Silent Killer’. About 46.0% of adults worldwide with hypertension are unaware that they have the condition. Methods: The present study aimed at the investigation on the anthropometric, derived variables and blood pressure variables. It also determined the correlation between anthropometric, derived variables and blood pressure variables. It estimated the prevalence rate of hypertension and prehypertension among the young adult students of Midnapore Town, Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal, India. The cross-sectional study was conducted among 201 young adult male students aged between 18 to 28 years. Height (HT), Weight (WT), Mid upper arm circumference (MUAC), Hip circumference (HC), Waist circumference (WC), Biceps skinfold (BSF), Triceps skinfold (TSF), Subscapular skinfold (SSF) and Suprailliac skinfold (SISF), Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP), Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) and pulse rate measurement were taken using standard procedure. Results: The overall prevalence of hypertension was found to be 10.9% among the studied participants and 44.3% was the prehypertension prevalence rate. A significant correlation (p<0.05) was found between blood pressure variables and different anthropometric and derived variables. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that there is a very strong prevalence of prehypertension and HTN among the young adult students of Midnapore town. Results of such kind of researches can be helpful in the formulation of appropriate awareness programmes in the universities and colleges.

A causal association between obesity and constipation: a two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization study and meta-analysis

ObjectiveObservational studies suggest a potential link between obesity and constipation, but existing results are conflicting. Therefore, we conducted a Mendelian randomization (MR) study and meta-analysis to assess the causal relationship between obesity and the risk of constipation.MethodsIn this study, independent genetic variants closely related to constipation were acquired from a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to analyze the relationship between genetically predisposed obesity and the risk of constipation. Waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), and body mass index (BMI) were collected from the GWAS. Then, the causal relationship between constipation and obesity was explored using a two-sample MR study in both directions. The robustness of the results was evaluated using sensitivity analysis. Furthermore, a systemic review and meta-analysis were performed to calculate relative risks (RRs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). Subgroup analyses stratified by age and obesity degree were completed. To evaluate whether the current studies were affected by unmeasured confounders, E-values of each study were determined.ResultsIn MR analysis, the incidence of constipation increased with the increase in BMI [inverse variance-weighted (IVW) odds ratio (OR) = 1.138 (1.029, 1.260), p = 0.012]. In addition, constipation was impacted by WC [IVW OR = 1.220 (1.061, 1.402), p = 0.005]. However, there was no evidence that WHR [IVW OR = 1.833 (0.826, 4.065), p = 0.136] or HC [IVW OR = 0.949, (0.836, 1.077), p = 0.415] has a causal effect on constipation. In reverse MR analysis, there was no evidence supporting the causality between constipation and obesity [BMI IVW OR = 1.010 (0.998, 1.022), p = 0.089; WHR IVW OR = 1.000 (0.946, 1.057), p = 0.994; WC IVW OR = 1.008 (0.995, 1.022), p = 0.217; HC IVW OR = 0.996 (0.982, 1.011), p = 0.626]. In the meta-analysis, 14 eligible articles were included, involving 43,488 subjects. According to the results of the meta-analysis, the risk of obesity and overweight significantly increased the risk of constipation [RR = 1.145 (0.952, 1.376)]. This was consistent with the MR analysis results. Moreover, overweight and obesity were significantly related to a higher constipation risk among children [overweight RR = 1.112 (0.943, 1.312); obesity RR = 1.407 (1.282, 1.544)]. Additionally, overweight in adults could decrease the risk of constipation [RR = 0.940 (0.827, 1.068)]. Nevertheless, no significant association was observed between obesity in adults and the risk of constipation [RR = 1.000 (0.768, 1.303)]. Sensitivity analysis revealed the robustness of our findings.ConclusionIn this combined MR study and meta-analysis, obesity is associated with an increased risk of constipation. The MR analysis demonstrates the causal relationship between genetically predisposed obesity and the risk of constipation. More research is required to investigate the potential correlation between obesity and the risk of constipation and associated mechanisms.

Body mass index, waist circumference, hip circumference, abdominal volume index, and cognitive function in older Chinese people: a nationwide study

BackgroundNumerous studies have indicated an obesity paradox in observational research on aging health, where being normal weight or underweight adversely affects cognitive function, while moderate obesity may offer protective benefits. This study aims to investigate the association between body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), abdominal volume index (AVI), and the joint effect of BMI and HC on cognitive impairment in older Chinese people.MethodsA total of 10,579 participants aged 65 years and older from the 2018 Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) were included in this cross-sectional study. BMI, WC, HC, WHtR, WHR, and AVI were calculated from height, weight, WC, and HC measurements, where weight, WC, and HC were obtained by direct measurement. Mini-Mental State Examination was used to assess cognitive impairment. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were estimated using binary logistic regression. Non-linear correlations were investigated using restricted cubic spline curves.ResultsIn multivariate logistic regression models fully adjusted for confounding variables, our analyses showed significant negative associations of WC [OR 0.93 (95%CI 0.88–0.98), P = .012], HC [OR 0.92 (95%CI 0.87–0.97), P = .004], lower WHR (Q2) [OR 0.85 (95%CI 0.72-1.00), P = .044], and AVI [OR 0.93 (95%CI 0.88–0.98), P = .011] with cognitive impairment. Nonlinear curve analysis showed that the risk of cognitive impairment was lowest when the BMI was about 25.5 kg/m², suggesting that the optimal BMI for older Chinese people to maintain good cognitive ability may be in the overweight range. In addition, there was a non-linear “N” shaped relationship between HC and cognitive impairment, with HC having the highest risk of cognitive impairment at about 82 cm and the lowest risk at about 101 cm. The joint effects analysis indicated that the lowest risk was observed among those with normal or higher BMI but higher HC compared with participants with normal BMI levels and lower HC levels.ConclusionIn older Chinese people, a low-waisted and high-hip circumference body figure is favorable for cognitive function in older people. It also found a significant association between AVI and cognitive impairment. The joint analysis of BMI and HC suggests that maintaining a normal or higher BMI with a higher HC may be more conducive to maintaining good cognitive function.

Investigating the correlation of hip circumference to cardiovascular disease and type-2 diabetes using Mendelian randomization.

This study aimed to assess the correlation between hip circumference (HC) and the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus using Mendelian randomization (MR) to overcome observational study limitations. MR analysis utilized genetic variation from the MR Base in a two-sample analysis. Three methods were employed: MR-Egger regression, weighted median estimator, and inverse variance weighting (IVW). Data was acquired from MR Base, a platform summarizing genome-wide association study (GWAS) data for MR research. Publicly available summary statistics datasets from GWAS meta-analyses were used, with HC and HC adjusted for body mass index (BMI) as exposures. Data for CVD and type 2 diabetes mellitus were obtained as outcomes. Results indicated a positive causal relationship between HC and CVD (IVW: P = 1.84e-07, OR: 1.37, 95% CI: 1.22-1.54) as well as type 2 diabetes mellitus (IVW: P = 0.04, OR: 1.62, 95% CI: 1.02-2.56), independent of BMI. However, HC after BMI adjustment showed no significant causal relationship with CVD (IVW: P = 0.05, OR: 1.09, 95% CI: 1.00-1.19) and exhibited a negative association with type 2 diabetes mellitus (IVW: P = 0.00, OR: 0.76, 95% CI: 0.66-0.88), suggesting a protective effect against type 2 diabetes mellitus. After adjusting for BMI, adipose tissue concentrated in the hip region showed a protective effect against type 2 diabetes mellitus but not against CVD. These findings offer insights into diabetes prevention and treatment strategies, and may inform plastic surgery procedures. Further research is needed to validate these findings and explore underlying mechanisms.

The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Waist and Hip Circumference and Selected Indicators Related to It Among Adolescents From the Kraków (Poland) Population.

The aim of the study was to assess changes in waist and hip circumference, as well as the waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) indices among adolescents (11-15-year-olds) from the Kraków during the COVID-19 pandemic. Cross-sectional studies were conducted in four main districts of the city in the years 2020 and 2022. The study group consisted of 1662 people. Measurements of height, waist circumference, and hip circumference were taken. The collected data were used to calculate the WHR and WHtR indices. Statistical analyses were performed using two-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey's test, as well as the Kruskal-Wallis test, depending on the normality of distribution. An increase in hip circumference was observed in most age groups of both sexes. Among 14-15-year-old boys, an increase in waist circumference was observed, while among girls, the majority of cohorts showed the opposite trend. Additionally, in most age groups, a decrease in the values of WHR and WHtR indices was observed in both sexes, except for boys aged 14-15. The study found that government-imposed restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on waist circumference, hip circumference, WHR, and WHtR indicators among adolescents aged 11-15 from Kraków. While some results showed regression, suggesting potential factors such as reduced physical activity or increased screen time contributing to deteriorating outcomes. On the other hand, not all results changed, which may be attributed to the absence of modifications in dietary habits or physical activity as government restrictions ceased.

Neck Circumference as A Screening Tool for Obesity in Pre- and Primary School Children in Puducherry India – A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Obesity has become the 21st Century’s greatest challenge and threat. Around 50% of the obese children become obese adolescents, of which 80% become obese adults. Methodology: Cross-sectional analytical study was done on 930 pre- and primary school children. Neck circumference, weight, height, waist and hip circumference was recorded. Overweight/obese identified according to WHO standards. Age-specific percentile charts for boys and girls were drawn with data from the apparently normal children in the study population. Results: The Neck Circumference measurements ranged from 23.64(±1.16) to 28.49(±2.87) in boys and 23.59(±1.63) to 27.6(±2.67) in girls. ROC analysis derived cut-offs for overweight and obesity in each age group/gender were found to have high sensitivity (80-100%) and specificity (60-95.9%). Using the reference percentile data/curves, and the cut –offs obtained by ROC analysis, a neck circumference above the 75th percentile for age and gender can be regarded as overweight and above the 90th percentile as obese in both boys and girls. Conclusion: The study concludes that the Neck circumference is a valid and effective screening tool for overweight/obesity in pre and primary school children.

Dawn-to-dusk intermittent fasting is associated with overexpression of autophagy genes: A prospective study on overweight and obese cohort

Aim and BackgroundA growing body of evidence supports the impact of intermittent fasting (IF) on longevity and healthy aging via the modulation of autophagy genes. The activation of the catabolic autophagic machinery (LAMP2, LC3B, ATG5, and ATG4D) has protective effects against degenerative aging and chronic diseases. This research examined the changes in the expression of the aforementioned genes upon the observance of dawn-to-dusk IF among metabolically healthy participants with overweight and obesity. MethodsFifty-one (51) participants (36 males and 15 females, 38.84 ± 11.73 years) with overweight and obesity (BMI = 29.75 ± 5.04 kg/m2) were recruited and monitored before and at the end of the commencement of the four-week IF. Six healthy subjects with normal BMI (21.4±2.20 kg/m2) were recruited only to standardize the reference for normal levels of gene expressions. At the two time points, anthropometric, biochemical, and dietary assessments were performed, and LAMP2, LC3B, ATG5, and ATG4D gene expressions were assessed using qRT-PCR on RNA extracted from whole blood samples. ResultsAt the end of IF, and compared to the pre-fasting levels, the relative gene expressions among participants with overweight/obesity were significantly increased for the three autophagy genes LAMP2, LC3B, and ATG5, with increments of about 4.2 folds, 1.9-fold, and 1.4-fold, respectively. In contrast, the increase in the ATG4D gene was not significant. Concomitantly, significant decreases were found in body weight, BMI, fat mass, body fat percent, hip and waist circumferences, LDL, IL-6, and TNF-a (P <0.05), While HDL, IL-10, and CD163 significantly increased (P <0.05). Binary logistic regression analysis for genetic expressions showed no significant association between high-energy intake, waist circumference, or obesity and the four gene expressions. ConclusionsFour consecutive weeks of dawn-to-dusk IF of Ramadan is associated with the upregulation of autophagy gene expressions in participants with overweight/obesity, and this may explain, at least in part, its favorable short-term temporal metabolic and health-improving effects on early aging-related markers. Hence, IF presumably may entail a protective impact against early markers of aging and metabolic diseases in participants with overweight/obesity.

Exercise benefits following breast cancer surgery – a narrative review

One of the most common cancer diseases among women is breast cancer. Treatment following breast cancer surgery leads to many complications. Exercises play an important role from the immediate post operative period which could help in preventing post-surgical complications. Prevention of complications improves the quality of life of women. Though women feel that performing exercises following treatment are difficult there are many positive effects of exercises. This current study was done with an objective to analyse the various effects of exercises especially on the resisted exercises in preventing Secondary lymphedema (SL) and to focus light on the benefits of the exercises during and after chemotherapy. Literature search of PubMed, Clinical Key and Google scholar was performed. For women recovering from breast cancer surgery, resisted exercises, either by themselves or in combination with aerobic exercises, were safe and effective. These exercises improved upper body strength, increased endurance, decreased adipose tissue, decreased waist and hip circumferences, increased lean body mass, improved cardiovascular fitness, improved self-esteem, and decreased depression. Women with breast cancer related lymphedema had a considerable improvement in pain after performing deep breathing exercises combined with upper limb movements. Exercise can help mitigate the negative effects of chemotherapy and helps to overcome cancer related fatigue. Along with conventional exercises including range of motion exercises and aerobic exercises, moderate-intensity upper body resistance exercises are recommended to be a part of exercise protocol prescribed and educated to the women following breast cancer surgery for them to lead a better quality of life.

Curcumin on Human Health: A Comprehensive SystematicReview and Meta-Analysis of 103 RandomizedControlled Trials.

The aim of this meta-analysis was to determine the effect of curcumin on a range of health outcomes. PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched from inception until September 2023. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that compared the effect of Curcuma longa L. with placebo were considered eligible. The risk of bias and overall certainty of evidence were assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE), respectively. We meta-analyzed the effect sizes across eligible studies using the random-effects model. In total, 103 RCTs on 42 outcomes were included, incorporating a total population of 7216 participants. Overall, 23 out of 42 (55%) outcomes reported statistically significant effect sizes. The credibility of the evidence was rated as high for fasting blood sugar (FBS), C-reactive protein (CRP), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and weight. The remaining outcomes presented moderate (waist circumference [WC], hip circumference [HC], body mass index [BMI], insulin, Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance [HOMA-IR], quantitative insulin-sensitivity check index [QUICKI], leptin, gamma-glutamyl transferase [GGT], glutathione [GSH], and superoxide dismutase [SOD]), low (14 outcomes), or very low (14 outcomes) evidence. In conclusion, curcumin supplementation can modify FBS and some glycemic indices, lipid parameters, as well as inflammatory and oxidative parameters. This updated summary of the accumulated evidence may help inform clinicians and future guidelines regarding medical and scientific interest in curcumin. However, due to limitations in the methodological quality of the included studies, well-designed and long-term RCTs with large sample sizes are needed. Trial registration: PROSPERO: CRD42021251969.

Descriptive study of possible relation between cardio-ankle vascular index and lipids in hypertension subjects

Aim: The cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) is a new evaluation indicator for arteriosclerosis. This study investigated the relationship between the CAVI and lipid levels in patients with hypertension in a real clinical environment. Methods: This descriptive study enrolled 2,656 patients (male/female: 1,016/1,640) from the Outpatient Department of Vascular Medicine of Peking University Shougang Hospital and Jinding Street Community Health Service Center. CAVI was measured using a VaseraVS-1000 vascular screening system (Fukuda Denshi, Tokyo, Japan). Results: Age, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, hip circumference, CAVI, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), creatinine, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), uric acid (UA), hypersensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), homocysteine, HbA1c, and triglyceride (TG) were significantly higher in the hypertension group than in the non-hypertension group. The levels of total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were significantly lower in the hypertension group than in the non-hypertension group. The CAVI value was significantly higher in patients with hypertriglyceridemia and normal LDL-C than in those with normal TG and hyper-LDL-C. Age, waist circumference, UA, FPG, HDL-C, hs-CRP, HbA1c, BMI, SBP, and DBP were independently associated with CAVI in all patients. Beta blockers were negatively correlated with CAVI (β = –0.411, P = 0.011). Sex (male) and history of hypertension and diabetes mellitus were positively correlated with CAVI (β = 0.419, P &lt; 0.001; β = 0.247, P = 0.011; β = 0.638, P &lt; 0.001; respectively). Conclusions: The CAVI was significantly higher in patients with hypertension and exhibited differences based on sex. Although we did not find a significant correlation between CAVI and TG, it remains crucial to maintain blood pressure to prevent the development of arteriosclerosis.

Effects of resistance and strength training on serum phosphorus levels in male footballers: implications for physical educators and sports trainers

Background and Study Aim. Sports performance and overall health of athletes are highly dependent on various physiological markers. Among these, blood biochemistry is of great importance and should be carefully considered in athletes' training regimens. However, the effect of strength and resistance training on serum phosphorus levels still requires further clarification and more effective solutions. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of strength and resistance training on serum phosphorus levels in elite male soccer players. Material and Methods. A sample of 90 volunteers was recruited from football athletes in the Peshawar division. Thirty participants were selected from each of the under-16, under-19, and under-23 age groups. They were divided into three groups: the Resistance Training Group (RTG), the Strength Training Group (STG), and the Control Group (CG). Each group consisted of 30 participants, with 10 from each age category. Phosphorus levels and anthropometric measurements (height, weight, BMI, waist circumference, hip circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR)) were assessed before and after a 12-week strength and resistance training intervention. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and paired sample t-tests were used to evaluate changes over time. Results. Significant improvements were observed in serum phosphorus levels in the Resistance Training Group (4.77±0.258 vs. 3.66±0.207, P&lt;0.001) and in the Strength Training Group (4.31±0.304 vs. 3.66±0.209, P&lt;0.001). A 12-week regimen of strength and resistance training significantly improved serum phosphorus levels among the participants. Analysis of variance indicated that both strength and resistance training significantly affected serum phosphorus levels after 12 weeks of intervention. Tukey’s HSD test revealed that the effects of resistance training were more pronounced than those of strength training. Conclusions. This study highlights the importance of incorporating both strength and resistance training in athletic programs. These training approaches are crucial for optimizing physical health and performance. The findings underscore the need for educators and trainers to adapt and refine their methods to maximize the benefits of these interventions. By doing so, they can enhance the effectiveness of training regimens and contribute to the overall well-being of athletes.

Correlation between Blood Glucose Level and Anthropometric Measurements among University Students at the University of Tripoli

The detection of risk factors associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) at an earlier age may help reduce or even prevent the future outcomes of this disease. To date, there has been no research conducted on university students regarding associated risk factors such as being overweight or obese in Libya. The aim of this study was to determine any correlation between serum glucose level and anthropometric measurements, age and family history of T2DM in students of the University of Tripoli. A cross-sectional study involving a survey questionnaire, anthropometric measurement and blood glucose levels taken from 246 University students (aged 18-43). Recruitment was carried out from July 15 to August 1, 2024 at the research laboratory in the Faulty of Medical Technology at the University of Tripoli. The Pearson correlation test showed a positive correlation between the level of blood glucose and hip circumference [r= 0.139, P= 0.029]. The only other two risk factors that were close to the level of statistically significance were weight [r= 0.115, P= 0.071] and BMI [r= 0.117, P= 0.067]. T2DM might be prevented or mitigated by encouraging young adults in particular to keep hip circumference in the normal range.

Use of anthropometric parameters, body composition and conicity index as predictors of cardiovascular risk in overweight and obese women

Introduction: Obesity is a growing global public health problem. Currently, more than 2 billion people in the world are overweight, and around 670 million of them have been diagnosed with obesity. Objective: To relate anthropometric parameters, body composition markers and the conicity index as predictors of cardiovascular risk in overweight or obese adult women. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of 62 women. Body weight, height, waist and hip circumference were assessed. Based on these data, body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, waist-to-height ratio and conicity index were obtained. Total and visceral fat percentages were also determined. Results: The patients were characterized by a mean age of 39.7 years (SD± 11.58), a mean BMI of 33.72 kg/m2 (SD± 4.74), WC of 100.27 cm (SD± 11.86); WC of 116.09 cm (SD± 9.53); WHR of 0.86 cm (SD± 0.07); WHtR of 0.64 cm (SD±0.07); %BF of 48% (SD± 639.11); %GV of 9% (SD± 2), and IC of 1.27 (SD± 0.09). There was a statistically significant difference between WHR and the parameters of %BF (P-value: 0.022), %GV (P-value: 0.001), and IC (P-value: 0.000). There was also a significant association between WHtR and GV percentages (P-value: 0.000) and IC (P-value: 0.001). With regard to IC, the analysis showed a significant difference for %GV (P-value: 0.002) and WC (P-value: 0.000). Conclusion: The use of anthropometric indicators such as waist-to-height ratio, waist-to-hip ratio and conicity index is an easy-to-apply and low-cost tools that can be used to assess and diagnose cardiovascular risk in overweight women.

The Cardiometabolic Multimorbidity Risk Profile of Females Living in Glendale, ILembe District of Kwa-Zulu Natal

Background: Empirical studies have indicated that cardiometabolic multimorbidity risk profiles are upsurging among the South African population. However, there is a limited number of studies that have been conducted to validate these findings in rural communities. Aim: To study the prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors of females residing in rural Glendale in the ILembe District, South Africa. Methods: One hundred females (aged 18–40 years) voluntarily participated in a cross-sectional observational study. All participants completed an ISAK somatotype profiling, and measured their fasting cholesterol, glucose, blood pressure and resting heart rate. Results: Participants’ average age, body mass index, stature, and body mass, were 28.34 ± 7.07 years, 29.5 ± 8.06 kg/m2, 157.26 ± 6.09 cm, and 72.9 ± 21.12 kg, respectively. The cohort had a mean waist circumference of 94.2 ± 22.1 cm, hip circumference of 108.4 ± 20.9 cm, and waist-to-hip ratio of 0.86. Participants’ mean heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure were 86.31 ± 8.68 bpm, 116.79 ± 16.34 mmHg, and 82.14 ± 10.87 mmHg, respectively. Eleven participants recorded a resting heart rate greater than 100 bpm. Average blood glucose, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and high-density lipoprotein recorded were 4.87 ± 1.26 mmol/L, 3.78 ± 0.94 mmol/L, 1.76 ± 1.86 mmol/L, and 1.31 ± 0.4 mmol/L. Eighty-three participants HDL-C were below the recommended normative value of 1.55 mmol/L. Conclusion: The average participant presented as overweight, with elevated diastolic blood pressure, and a resting heart rate that has been proven to increase one’s cardiometabolic multimorbidity risk profile. Additionally, a small portion of the cohort were identified to be prediabetic and diabetic. Large proportion of participants had low HDL-C levels suggestive of poor cardiovascular disease protection.

Levels of adherence to the Planetary Health Diet of current diets in Italian adults

Abstract Despite the efforts in the direction towards the identification of healthy and sustainable diets, little is known about the environmental impact associated with current diets. The aim of this study was to validate the application of the Planetary Health Diet Index (PHDI) to dietary habits currently adopted in a sample of adults living in southern Italy and background variables associated. Dietary intake from nearly 2000 individuals was assessed through a validated 110-item food frequency questionnaire. The PHDI was applied by considering the energy contribution of 16 different components with a gradual scoring system. For the estimation of the environmental impact, carbon and water footprint data for food commodities were extracted from the SU-EATABLE LIFE database and matched with the FFQ items. An energy-adjusted linear association between the PHDI scores and the majority of food groups included in the analysis was found; when considering the level of food processing, ultra-processed food consumption was inversely associated with PHDI scores. Among nutrients, PHDI scores were directly associated with fiber, antioxidant vitamins, potassium, plant-derived omega-3 poly-unsaturated fats, and inversely with sodium, total, saturated, mono- and poly-unsaturated fats, cholesterol, and protein. A significant difference in carbon and water footprint was observed across quartiles of PHDI scores as well as a linear direct association. After adjustment for potential confounding factors, 1-point increase in the PHDI score was associated with lower likelihood of being overweight or obese (OR = 0.99, 95% CI: 0.98-0.99). A linear inverse association between PHDI scores and waist and hip circumferences and, partially, with BMI but not with body weight was found. In conclusion, the PHDI seems to properly identify an environmentally friendly diet with a good nutritional quality. Key messages • An environmental-friendly dietary pattern resulted also having a good nutritional profile. • Adherence to the Planetary Health Diet is associated with parameters of central obesity.

Innovative risk score to diagnose depression using data from the UAE Healthy Future Study

Abstract Introduction Depression has been recognized as a major mental health disorder. Diagnosing depression remains a challenge due to its complex multifactorial nature. The UAE Healthy Future Study is a long-term cohort study that focuses on understanding the factors that contribute to chronic disease among Emiratis. It involves answering a comprehensive questionnaire, undergoing physical measurements such as Body Mass Index (BMI), and biological samples for analysis. We analyized the eight-item depression screening instrument Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-8) for this project. Methods Out of 487 participants included in the PHQ-8, 205 participants (42.1%) were included in the statistical analysis after omitting missing values. A multivariate Least Absolute Selection Shrinkage Operator (LASSO) logistic regression model was performed using gender, age, BMI, waist circumference, hip circumference, body fat percentage, high-density lipoprotein (mg/dL), lowdensity lipoprotein (mg/dL), total cholesterol (mg/dL), diastolic blood pressure, systolic blood pressure, hemoglobin A1C, as predictors. The primary outcome was the binarized total PHQ-8 using a cutoff value of ten Tenfold cross-validation was applied. Results A cutoff value that yields an approximate sensitivity of 90% was selected to maximize the ability of the novel risk score to correctly identify subjects with depression symptoms. Sensitivity and specificity were estimated with a corresponding 95% confidence interval (95% CI). A novel depression risk score was computed as the linear predictor of the selected five variables in the LASSO regression analysis, as following: Risk score = -3.284 + 0.471*gender - 0.053*age + 0.049*BMI + 0.022*HDLmgdL - 0.072*HBA1c Conclusions We have shown that a novel depression risk score provides useful information for screening of depression. Further validation studies are needed to confirm the application of the risk score in daily practice. Key messages • A novel depression risk score provides useful information for screening of depression. • If the risk score can be verified in a different population, then it can improve the screening methods for depression.