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Mass-to-surface area index in a large cohort
L E Armstrong1, J P De Luca, E L Christensen
1Heat Research Division, U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, Massachusetts 01760-5007.
American Journal of Physical Anthropology
|November 1, 1990
Summary
This study establishes a mass-to-surface area index (M/SA) database from a military cohort, revealing significant differences between males and females but not across ethnic groups. These findings aid in assessing heat intolerance risk.
Area of Science:
- Anthropology
- Human Biology
- Physiology
Background:
- The relationship between mass-to-surface area index (M/SA) and heat tolerance is documented in biological and anthropological research.
- A comprehensive M/SA database is lacking for standardized interpretation of studies.
- This study addresses the need for a reference M/SA database.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present M/SA data from a large military cohort.
- To analyze the influence of gender, ethnicity, and age on M/SA distribution.
- To explore the correlation between M/SA and other physical characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Data collected from 1,170 males (aged 17-54) and 305 females (aged 17-40).
- Statistical analysis to determine the effects of gender, ethnic group, and age on M/SA.
- Comparison of M/SA values across different demographic groups.
Main Results:
- M/SA showed no significant increase with age across the 17-75 year range.
- Significant differences (P < .001) in M/SA and other characteristics were observed between males and females.
- No statistically significant differences in M/SA were found among ethnic groups for either sex.
Conclusions:
- The developed M/SA database provides a valuable reference standard.
- Gender is a significant determinant of M/SA, impacting heat tolerance potential.
- M/SA data can help identify individuals at higher risk of heat intolerance, aiding in targeted interventions for laborers and athletes.