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Relationships between cigarette smoking, body size and body shape
M Akbartabartoori1, M E J Lean, C R Hankey
1Human Nutrition at Glasgow, Division of Developmental Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, Scotland, UK. 0109782a@student.gla.ac.uk
International Journal of Obesity (2005)
|October 27, 2004
Summary
Cigarette smoking is linked to lower body mass index (BMI) in adults over 24, but not younger individuals. In women, smoking is associated with central adiposity, while in men, it may indicate reduced muscle mass.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Anthropometry
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Smoking is a significant public health concern with widespread health implications.
- Understanding the relationship between smoking and body composition is crucial for targeted health interventions.
- Previous studies suggest a complex interplay between smoking, weight, and fat distribution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the associations between smoking status and key anthropometric measures: body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR).
- To explore potential age and gender differences in these associations.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of cross-sectional data from the 1998 Scottish Health Survey.
- Inclusion of a nationally representative sample of 9047 adults aged 16-74 years.
- Statistical adjustment for confounding factors including age, social class, physical activity, and alcohol intake.
Main Results:
- Current smokers exhibited lower BMI compared to non-smokers, while ex-smokers had higher BMI (P<0.001), even after adjusting for confounders.
- These BMI differences were not observed in younger age groups (men 16-24 years; women <55 years).
- In women, current smokers showed higher WC and WHR, and lower HC (P<0.001) compared to non-smokers, indicating central adiposity. In men, only HC was lower in current smokers.
Conclusions:
- Cigarette smoking is associated with lower BMI in adults over 24 years, particularly men, but not in younger populations.
- Smoking in women is linked to increased central adiposity (higher WC and WHR).
- In men, smoking's association with lower HC may suggest a reduction in muscle mass rather than increased central adiposity.