Prevalence of Normal Weight Obesity Amongst College Students
Presentation
Overview
Overview
Description
Background: Normal weight obesity (NWO) is an individual exhibiting low body mass index (BMI) or normal BMI but has high percentage body fat. Identifying individuals with NWO is clinically relevant given the link between adiposity and hypokinetic diseases. Purpose: To determine the prevalence of normal weight obesity amongst a young, non-sedentary population. Methods: Two hundred and fifty-four apparently healthy volunteers (Age = 22.2 ± 7.2 yrs; Height = 171.5 ± 9.6 cm; Body Mass = 69.9 ± 13.4 kg) provided informed consent prior to participation. Body mass index was calculated by dividing body mass (kg) by height squared (m2). Percentage body fat was quantified via the BODPOD® G/S. Class I Obesity and Low/Normal BMI categorizations were defined by the American College of Sports Medicine. Conclusions: Findings indicate 12.2% of the overall sample exhibited NWO, with a higher prevalence among males (17.2%) compared to females (9.8%). Of interest is to determine if the identified NWO individuals have elevated health risk(s) compared to individuals with similar BMI. From a practical perspective, identifying individuals with NWO is an opportunity for clinicians to proactively educate their clients regarding the health risks associated with hypokinetic disease(s).
