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Related Concept Videos

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The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a numerical value derived from a person's weight and height, used to categorize individuals into weight ranges. It is calculated using the formula: weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared. Obesity is a health condition characterized by excessive accumulation of adipose tissue that poses health risks, often diagnosed with a BMI ≥ 30. This excess fat storage occurs when surplus dietary calories are converted into triglycerides and stored in adipocytes...
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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 18, 2026

Assessment of Child Anthropometry in a Large Epidemiologic Study
09:36

Assessment of Child Anthropometry in a Large Epidemiologic Study

Published on: February 2, 2017

The freshman 15-a closer look.

Sareen S Gropper1, Karla P Simmons, Alisha Gaines

  • 1Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA. groppss@auburn.edu

Journal of American College Health : J of ACH
|December 5, 2009
PubMed
Summary

College freshmen experience significant weight gain and increased body fat during their first year. This freshman weight gain is linked to larger waist circumference, potentially posing long-term health risks.

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Area of Science:

  • Human Physiology
  • Nutritional Science
  • Public Health

Background:

  • The transition to college often involves lifestyle changes impacting student health.
  • Understanding freshman weight gain is crucial for developing targeted health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To quantify changes in body weight, composition, and size among college freshmen.
  • To identify factors associated with weight gain during the academic year.

Main Methods:

  • Measurements of height, weight, body composition, and waist/hip circumference were taken.
  • Data collected at the start and end of the fall and spring semesters.

Main Results:

  • Significant increases in mean weight, body mass index (BMI), and body fat percentage observed.
  • Academic year weight gain averaged 2.6 lbs for all students and 6.0 lbs for weight gainers.
  • Weight change correlated significantly with waist circumference change.

Conclusions:

  • Freshman weight gain is associated with increased body fat and waist circumference.
  • Continued trends may lead to adverse health outcomes.
  • Early intervention strategies are recommended to mitigate long-term risks.