A comparative analysis of BMI and skinfold measurements in the assessment of body composition parameters

To measure biceps, triceps, subscapular, and suprailiac skinfold thicknesses, and to construct population growth charts for these skinfolds and for the sum of the 4 skinfold thicknesses. One aim was also to derive the percentage of body fat from skinfold thicknesses, and to determine whether BMI and MUAC could be used to measure body fatness. The research methodology involved a cross-sectional study design, with data collected from children 0-18 years of age across different age groups and in both sexes in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). We included at least 200 children in each age-sex group. Height, weight, biceps skinfold, triceps skinfold, subscapular skinfold, suprailiac skinfold, and mid-upper-arm circumference were measured in each child. We determined whether the calculation of percentage body fat from the skinfold measurements correlated with BMI in the United Arab Emirates population. We also determined whether any of the above is a good indicator of fatness in children. Statistical tests used were Pearson's correlation, partial correlations and concordance coefficient. The total number of children studied was 19,960 children (9646 boys and 10,314 girls). BMI, upper-arm circumference, sum of four skinfolds, and percentage body fat charts were constructed using the LMS smoothing method. BMI significantly correlated with the sum of skinfold thicknesses and mid-upper-arm circumference. Prevalence of obesity and overweight in ages 13-17 years was respectively 9.94% and 15.16% in females and 6.08% and 14.16% in males. Derived body fat charts were found not to be accurate. BMI and MUAC were not concordant with the sum of 4 skinfold thicknesses. National BMI, upper-arm circumference, and sum of four skinfolds charts have been constructed as a reference standard for the UAE. The sum of four skinfold thicknesses provides a more accurate measure of adiposity than BMI or MUAC in UAE children. These UAE-specific growth charts enable better assessment of childhood obesity.