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Published on: August 17, 2022
Body fat estimation using bioelectrical impedance
M G Shaikh1, N J Crabtree, N J Shaw
1Department of Endocrinology, Birmingham Children's Hospital, Birmingham, UK. guftar.shaikh@nhs.net
Background/Aims:
Although childhood obesity is a major problem, routine assessment methods do not reflect fat mass. Body mass index, which is most commonly used, gives an indication of weight for height and not a degree of adiposity.
Methods:
Bioelectrical impedance and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) were used in a group of obese children to assess body fat.
Results:
Comparison between DEXA and commercial bioelectrical impedance scales in 46 children showed a highly significant correlation (R = 0.944, p < 0.001) in fat mass. Fat mass measured using bioelectrical impedance was 2.4 kg lower compared to measurement using DEXA.
Conclusion:
These bioelectrical scales may prove useful in the management of childhood obesity as they are able to provide important clinical information regarding fat mass and adiposity.
