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Accession Number:
ADA146456
Title:
Prediction of Percent Body Fat for U.S. Navy Women from Body Circumferences and Height
Descriptive Note:
Interim rept.
Corporate Author:
NAVAL HEALTH RESEARCH CENTER SAN DIEGO CA
Report Date:
1984-06-01
Pagination or Media Count:
30.0
Abstract:
In October 1981, OPNAVINST 6110.1B was promulgated establishing the percentage of body weight contributed by fat mass BF as the basis for weight control decisions. Tables based upon the work of Wright, et al. allowing prediction of BF from neck, biceps, forearm, abdomen and thigh circumferences were accepted for use on an interim basis. This report covers validation of the equation of Wright and his co-workers, as well as development and cross- validation of a new equation which offers improved prediction of BF for U.S. Navy female personnel. Anthropometric measures consisting of 8 skinfold thicknesses, 11 body circumferences, height, and body weight were made of 214 female U.S. Navy personnel aged 18-44 years mean age - 26.5 years. In addition, each participant had her body density and BF determined by underwater weighing. Validity of the Wright equation was assessed by correlation between predicted and measured BF. The correlation coefficient - 0.80 std. err. meas. 4.19 BF. Errors in prediction near the Navy minimum standard of 30 BF, dictated development of a new equation. Factor analysis of the anthropometric variables indicated a suitable equation could be developed using circumferences and height as predictors. An equation was developed using forward, stepwise multiple regression of logarithmic transforms of circumferences and height as predictors of body density determined from underwater weighing. The final equation was Body Density -0.350 x log ABDOMEN I HIP - NECK 0.221 X log HEIGHT 1.296. All measurements are expressed in centimeters. The multiple correlation coefficient for this equation was 0.85.
Distribution Statement:
APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE
