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Published on: August 15, 2018
Longitudinal changes in fat distribution in the Western Collaborative Group Study: a 23-year follow-up
D Carmelli1, M R McElroy, R H Rosenman
1Health Sciences Program, SRI International, Menlo Park, California 94025.
International Journal of Obesity
|January 1, 1991
Summary
This longitudinal study on aging and anthropometry found that while younger adults gained size, older adults experienced stature and weight loss. Fat redistribution, particularly abdominal fat, increased with age, independent of weight changes.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Human Physiology
- Anthropometry
Background:
- Aging is associated with significant physiological changes.
- Understanding longitudinal anthropometric changes is crucial for health and wellness.
- Individual differences in body composition persist throughout adulthood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine longitudinal changes in anthropometric measures in adults.
- To examine the persistence of individual differences in fat distribution and relative weight.
- To investigate the relationship between weight changes and fat distribution changes over time.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of anthropometric measurements from 1,150 subjects.
- Two examinations conducted 23 years apart.
- Subjects aged 65-86 at the final examination.
Main Results:
- Younger subjects (<50 years) showed increased size.
- Older subjects (≥50 years) experienced decreased stature (1.2 cm/decade) and weight (1.6 kg).
- Fat redistribution, especially abdominal fat, increased and was independent of weight changes.
Conclusions:
- Aging leads to decreased stature and weight in older adults.
- Longitudinal changes in fat distribution are a key aspect of aging.
- Abdominal fat measures showed stronger associations with overall obesity over time.
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