A Study on Body Mass Index Estimation among the 30 Years and above Age Group of Individuals in Urban Population of Eluru

Introduction: Body mass index (BMI) is commonly used to differentiate between normal and overweight/obesity individuals. The measurement of BMI reflects the risk of mortality and morbidity with variations in weight. Obesity can occur in any age, and generally increases with age. The aetiology of obesity is complex, and is one of multiple-causation. Hence, it is necessary to detect the body mass index at the early age and effectively correct the obesity during middle and elderly people by advocating some simple life style changes to keep their BMI in normal level.

Objectives: 1. To determine the body mass index in above 30 years age group 2. To study the some risk factors associated with body mass index.

Materials&Method: The present community based cross sectional study was conducted at urban area of Eluru during the period from January 2012 to June 2012. A total of 312 individuals were selected from field practice area of Community Medicine Department using simple random method. Importance of the study was explained to the participants and informed consent taken. Pretested study questionnaire was filled and the height, weight, Body mass index and waist hip ratio were recorded in both sexes. Results were critically analyzed and necessary statistical tests like proportions and chi square tests were applied.

Results: Out of 312 individuals, 164 (52,5%) were Women and 148 (47.5%) were men. In the study population, 15.1% were showing BMI > 25. Highest BMI was noticed in the age group of 40-50 years and female sex. Statistically significant association was found between female sex and high BMI (P<0.01). Highest number of hypertension individuals were having BMI > 25 and this association was statistically significant (P-0.02).

Conclusions: The prevalence of Overweight/Obesity was found to be higher as compared to other studies. Increasing BMI increases the risk of getting hypertension and this association was significant. We recommend that there is a need for checking simple body mass index periodically. So that simple life style modifications and nutritional advice to the middle and elderly people.