Validation Study of Self-Reported Anthropometric Indices among the Staff of the Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

Document Type : Original Article (s)

Authors

1 Food Security Research Center AND Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

2 PhD Candidate, Food Security Research Center AND Students Research Committee, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

3 General Practitioner, Integrative Functional Gastroenterology Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

4 Professor, Food Security Research Center AND Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

5 Professor, Integrative Functional Gastroenterology Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

Abstract

Background: Scarce data are available on validity of self-reported anthropometric indices in Iran. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the validity of self-reported anthropometric indices in comparison with the same variables measured by technicians in a subgroup of the staff of the Isfahan University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Isfahan, Iran.Methods: In the current study, 200 staff of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences were selected via convenience non-random sampling method. Weight, height, and waist and hip circumferences were questioned by the first technician. The same measures were taken three times by a trained technician according to standard protocols. Mean of three measurements were considered in statistical analysis.Findings: Weight (P = 0.040) and waist circumference (P < 0.001) measures were significantly lower in self-reported values compared to those that measured by the technician. Pearson correlation test between the measured and self-reported anthropometric indices ranged from 0.60 for hip circumference to 0.95 for weight. The highest agreement between the two series of values was observed for normal weight (73%) and overweight and obesity (91%). Overall, 87% of central obesity measured by the technician, was confirmed by self-reported measures. While, less than 13% of people with no abdominal obesity, according to the technician measures, were categorized as abdominally obese by self-reported values.Conclusion: These results indicate that self-reported anthropometric indices are highly accurate among this Iranian population, and are, therefore, appropriate for epidemiologic studies.

Keywords

References

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Journal of Isfahan Medical School
Volume 33, Issue 346 - Serial Number 346
July and August 2015
Pages 1318-1327

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History

  • Receive Date: 05 June 2015
  • Revise Date:
  • Accept Date: 06 April 2022

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