Physical activity patterns and anthropometric changes in Senegalese women observed over a complete seasonal cycle

This study describes the habitual physical activity of a group of women in Northern Senegal who are involved in a hydroagricultural development program and assesses its consequences for their nutritional status. A group of 30 women was followed on three occasions during a complete agricultural cycle. At each visit, activities were observed and timed over periods of 3 and 2 consecutive days. Anthropometric dimensions were taken at each visit, with a follow-up 1 year later. The women were divided into three groups according to reproductive status: pregnant (P), lactating (L), and nonpregnant, nonlactating (NPNL). The P group showed a gain in weight and body mass index only starting with the second trimester of pregnancy. During the postpartum stage, indices of arm muscle mass were lower than those measured prior to pregnancy. The L and NPNL groups did not show any changes in anthropometric indices during the cycle. Activity intensity levels among the women did not change from one visit to another. The levels could be classified as moderate to heavy intensity according to the FAO/WHO/UNU criteria. Overall the NPNL group was more active than the P group, with the latter increasing rest time and light activity at the onset of pregnancy. The time spent on subsistence activities outside of the household varied from one visit to the next according to the demand for agricultural labor. Estimated energy expenditure of the women was compatible with their physiological state; however, increased participation of P and L women in agricultural work, especially work related to rice cultivation, could have a negative impact on their nutritional status. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.