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Measuring waist circumference in disabled adults
A Waninge1, K A M Ligthart, J Kramer
1Research Group in Health Care and Nursing, Hanze University, Applied Sciences & Royal Dutch Visio, De Brink, Veenweg 20, 9481 TJ Vries, The Netherlands. a.waninge@pl.hanze.nl
Research in Developmental Disabilities
|March 16, 2010
Summary
Measuring waist circumference in a supine position is valid and reliable for individuals with disabilities. A prediction equation allows comparison with international standards, overcoming measurement challenges.
Area of Science:
- Anthropometry
- Clinical Measurement
- Disability Studies
Background:
- Accurate waist circumference (WC) measurement is vital for health assessments.
- International standards for WC are typically based on standing measurements.
- Measuring WC in a supine position is necessary for individuals with severe disabilities but its validity and reliability are unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the validity of supine WC measurements.
- To develop an equation predicting standing WC from supine measurements.
- To assess the reliability of supine WC measurements in individuals with severe disabilities.
Main Methods:
- Validity study: 160 healthy participants, comparing standing vs. supine WC.
- Prediction equation: Multiple regression analysis.
- Reliability study: 43 participants with severe disabilities, test-retest supine WC measurements.
Main Results:
- Supine WC measurements showed significant differences compared to standing measurements.
- A prediction equation was formulated (R²=0.964, p<0.001).
- Supine WC measurements were reliable in participants with disabilities (ICC=.98, p<0.001), with no significant test-retest differences.
Conclusions:
- Supine WC measurement is a valid and reliable method for individuals with severe disabilities.
- A prediction equation enables comparison of supine measurements with international standards.
- This facilitates accurate health assessments for populations unable to stand for measurements.
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Monitoring Both Arms:
Monitoring BP in both arms during the initial assessment is advisable, as the systolic value may differ by five to ten mm Hg between arms. For subsequent BP assessments, use the arm with the higher reading.