Which measures of adiposity are related to Australian adolescent's perception of their weight?

Acta Paediatr. 2014 Jul;103(7):e317-24. doi: 10.1111/apa.12641. Epub 2014 Apr 15.

Abstract

Aim: To determine which measurement of adiposity - standardised body mass index (BMI-z), waist circumference or body fat percentage - is most closely correlated with adolescents' weight perception and whether this differs by gender.

Methods: Weight and height (used to calculate BMI-z), waist circumference and body fat percentage were measured in 2278 adolescents aged between 12 and 16 and compared with self-reported weight status.

Results: The distribution of subjects across the three weight categories (underweight, healthy weight and overweight) differed significantly between BMI-z, waist circumference and body fat percentage (p < 0.001). BMI-z was most closely aligned with perceived weight status in boys and girls, and waist circumference was also a good correlate of weight perception in boys. Boys were more likely than girls to underestimate their weight when it was defined by BMI-z; however, girls were equally likely to underestimate their weight when it was defined by waist circumference. The majority of adolescents underestimated their weight status when it was defined by BF%.

Conclusion: BMI-z is the closest correlate of self-perceived weight status. In the absence of internationally accepted reference values for waist circumference, BMI-z is the most appropriate measure to verify weight perception.

Keywords: Adolescent; Measurement; Perception; Weight.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adiposity*
  • Adolescent
  • Body Mass Index
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Male
  • Overweight / psychology*
  • Sex Characteristics
  • Victoria
  • Waist Circumference