Anthropometry of elderly residents in the city of São Paulo, Brazil

[Sociodemographic characteristics associated with underweight and overweight in adults aged 50 years and over (ELSI-Brasil): differences between sexes]

The objective were to describe the prevalence of underweight and overweight, assessed by body mass index (BMI), stratified by sex and age group, and to analyze the sociodemographic characteristics associated with BMI in older women and men. This is a cross-sectional analysis of 8,974 participants aged ≥ 50 years from the baseline of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI-Brasil, 2015-2016). BMI was classified as underweight, eutrophy, and overweight according to the participant's age. A multinomial logistic regression model was used, considering the sociodemographic characteristics of women and men. The results showed a higher prevalence of overweight in women compared to men (64.1% vs. 57.3%). In both sexes, the prevalence of underweight was higher in the longest-lived individuals, while overweight was lower. In women, the chance of underweight was higher than the chance of eutrophy in those who were single/widowed/divorced (OR = 1.95; 95%CI: 1.42-2.66) and in those living in rural areas (OR = 1.58; 95%CI: 1.01-2.49), while the chance of being overweight was lower than the chance of being eutrophy in those living in rural areas (OR = 0.78; 95%CI: 0.62-0.97) and in all geographic macro-regions related to the South Region. For men, the chance of being overweight was lower than the chance of being eutrophy among single/widowed/divorced individuals (OR = 0.58; 95%CI: 0.48-0.69). The richest had a lower chance of being underweight (OR = 0.59; 95%CI: 0.38-0.90), as well as a higher chance of being overweight (OR = 1.52; 95%CI: 1.20-1.92). In conclusion, the sociodemographic characteristics associated with BMI differed between the sexes.

Calf circumference change and all-cause mortality among community-dwelling Chinese older people

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have described an association between single time point calf circumference (CC) and mortality. Evidence of associations between CC change and mortality is lacking. We aimed to determine the relationship between the CC change over time and all-cause mortality.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 906 participants in the 2014-2018 Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS). Restricted cubic splines were used to analyze associations between the relative CC change (exposure) and all-cause mortality (primary outcome). When there was evidence of non-linearity, a piecewise Cox regression model was next fitted, adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, health behaviours, health status and baseline CC.

RESULTS

The mean (SD) age was 83.8 (12.2) years old, and 50.2% (455/906) of participants were male. We observed a U-shaped association between the relative CC change (%) and all-cause mortality (P for non-linearity <0.001). Participants with stable CC over time had the lowest risk of death. After adjusting for covariates, when CC decreased over time, the hazard ratio per 10% higher in CC change was 1.32 (1.01-1.69). When CC increased over time, the hazard ratio per 10% higher in CC change was 1.35 (1.10-1.66).

CONCLUSION

Stable CC over time was associated with the lowest mortality risk. Our findings indicate the practical significance of monitoring CC change in older adult.

Factors related to malnutrition and their association with frailty in community-dwelling older adults registered at a geriatric clinic

BACKGROUND

We hypothesized that factors related to malnutrition, namely low muscle mass, appetite loss, and adiposity, are associated with frailty and pre-frailty in community-dwelling older adults.

AIMS

To identify the prevalence of frailty and pre-frailty in a Brazilian convenience sample and test the association between these conditions and malnutrition-related factors.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional analysis of an ongoing community project. We studied 106 older adults (≥60 years old). Frailty (dependent variable) was screened using the FRAIL-BR scale. The independent variables were appetite loss (AL), screened from the SNAQ questionnaire; sarcopenia risk, investigated by SARC-F; body adiposity, estimated by the body mass index (BMI); visceral adiposity, estimated by waist circumference (WC) and the combination of these two indicators. The associations were investigated using multinomial logistic regression models.

MAIN RESULTS

We found, from our sample, 30.2 % pre-frail and 31.1 % frail participants. The frail and pre-frail were older than the non-frail; the frail ones presented a higher proportion of sarcopenia risk and a higher proportion of AL. From the multiple regression models, frailty conditions showed significant association with the AL (OR = 0.68; p = 0.012 and OR = 0.64; p = 0.009 for pre-frail and frail, respectively) and with sarcopenia risk (OR = 3.24; p = 0.001 and OR = 5.34; p < 0.011 for pre-frail and frail respectively). The adiposity indicated by waist circumference, and age, remained in the final model only as adjusting variables but without statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

in our convenience sample of older adults, frailty and pre-frailty showed significant association with appetite loss and sarcopenia risk, but not with adiposity indicators. Future studies are needed to better understand our findings.

Analysis of anthropometric indicators used in the nutritional assessment of active elderly in the city of Macaé, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Introduction: Body composition changes related to aging alter the capacity of predicting risk through anthropometric parameters. Objective: To discuss methodological aspects of anthropometry in active elderly based on associations between Body Mass Index (BMI) and other nutritional indicators. Methods: Cross-sectional study with active elderly from Macaé, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (2014/2015). Nutritional status was described according to the BMI (Nutritional Screening Initiative, 1994). Linear regression analysis was performed: the outcome variable was BMI and the dependent ones were circumferences of waist, hip, neck, calf, arm and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR). Results: We assessed 173 people (55.5% female; median 71 years old). Calf and neck circumferences and WHR presented low R2 value. Among women, hip (R2=0.825) and waist circumferences (R2=0.729) individually explained much of the variation in BMI; and among men, waist (R2=0.759) and arm circumferences (R2=0.741) performed better. The cut-off points for waist circumference corresponding to the critical BMI value (27 kg/m2) were 87.9 and 96.8 cm, respectively for women and men. In multiple analysis, the association of waist, hip and arm circumferences with BMI remained significant. Conclusion: Circumferences traditionally used to assess adults had higher linear association with BMI than specific indicators for elderly people. The body composition of active elderly can be more similar to adults’ than that of elderly with other profiles. The waist circumference cut-off points established for adults may not be suitable for elderly populations. We suggest testing the cut-off points obtained by this study on other groups of active elderly.

Anthropometry as a readily accessible health assessment of older adults

Anthropometry (derived from the Greek Anthropos: human, and metron: measure) refers to the systematic collection, and measurement of the physical characteristics of the human body, primarily body weight, body size, and shape. Anthropometric values are closely related to genetic factors, environmental characteristics, social, and cultural conditions, lifestyle, functional status, and health. Anthropometric measurements can be used to assess risk of malnutrition, obesity, muscle wasting, increased fat mass, and maldistribution of adipose tissue. Potential modifiable factors include circumferences, skinfolds, and body weight. While are height, and the bone diameters are non-modifiable. Kinanthropometry is the study of size, shape, proportionality, composition, biological maturation, and body function, in order to understand the process of growth, exercise, sports performance, and nutrition. Aging of the population, which is associated with increased risk of chronic disease, and disability, is one of the most important demographic changes facing many countries. Anthropometric indicators are simple, portable, non-invasive, inexpensive, and easily applied measurements that can be readily applied in geriatric populations to guide preventative measures, and medical interventions in older adults.

Mortality Rates and Mortality Risk Factors in Older Adults with Dementia from Low- and Middle-Income Countries: The 10/66 Dementia Research Group Population-Based Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Dementia is the main cause of disability in older people living in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Monitoring mortality rates and mortality risk factors in people with dementia (PwD) may contribute to improving care provision.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to estimate mortality rates and mortality predictors in PwD from eight LMICs.

METHODS

This 3-5-year prospective cohort study involved a sample of 1,488 older people with dementia from eight LMIC. Total, age- and gender-specific mortality rates per 1,000 person-years at risk, as well as the total, age- and gender-adjusted mortality rates were estimated for each country's sub-sample. Cox's regressions were used to establish the predictors of mortality.

RESULTS

At follow-up, vital status of 1,304 individuals (87.6%) was established, of which 593 (45.5%) were deceased. Mortality rate was higher in China (65.9%) and lower in Mexico (26.9%). Mortality risk was higher in males (HR = 1.57; 95% CI: 1.32,1.87) and increased with age (HR = 1.04; 95% CI: 1.03,1.06). Neuropsychiatric symptoms (HR = 1.03; 95% CI: 1.01,1.05), cognitive decline (HR 1.04; 95% CI: 1.03,1.05), undernutrition (HR = 1.55; 95% CI: 1.19, 2.02), physical impairments (HR = 1.15; 95% CI: 1.03,1.29), and disease severity (HR = 1.43; 95% CI: 1.22,1.63) predicted higher mortality risk.

CONCLUSION

Several factors predicted higher mortality risk in PwD in LMICs. Males, those with higher age, higher severity of neuropsychiatric symptoms, higher number of physical impairments, higher disease severity, lower cognitive performance, and undernutrition had higher mortality risk. Addressing these indicators of long-term adverse outcomes may potentially contribute to improved advanced care planning, reducing the burden of disease in low-resourced settings.

Validation of an automated home blood pressure measurement device in oldest-old populations

Despite the wide use of automated devices for the self-measurement of home blood pressure (BP), no evidence is available regarding the accuracy of such devices in oldest-old populations. The aim of this study was to validate the accuracy of the automated oscillometric upper arm-cuff BP-monitoring device according to an international protocol in oldest-old individuals. In 35 participants aged over 85 years old, BP was measured on the same arm sequentially using a mercury sphygmomanometer (by two observers) and an Omron HEM-7080IC. The difference between the test device and observer measurements and associated factors were evaluated according to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 81060-2:2013 protocol. A total of 105 pairs (three pairs per participant) of the test device and observer BP measurements were obtained. The mean (±standard deviation: SD) differences in systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) between the methods were -0.7 ± 7.1 and -1.1 ± 4.5 mmHg, respectively, and those for each participant were -0.7 ± 5.8 mmHg for SBP and -1.1 ± 4.1 mmHg for DBP; the device therefore fulfilled the requirements of the ISO protocol. In the multivariate analysis with the linear mixed model, the difference was associated with the cuff size for SBP and pulse pressure for DBP. The Omron HEM-7080IC passed the ISO requirements for oldest-old individuals aged 85 years or older. This device can be recommended for clinical and self/home use in oldest-old populations.

Prevalence and factors associated with underweight among Brazilian older adults

The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of underweight among older adults according to socio-demographic characteristics in different regions of Brazil as well as determine associated contextual and individual factors. Cross-sectional population-based study with older adults (≥ 65 years) interviewed by telephone survey in 2014. The body mass index was calculated based on weight and height. Associations were determined using Pearson's chi-square test, considering a 5% significance level. Adjusted prevalence ratios were estimated using multilevel Poisson regression. Mean age was 73.3 years and the prevalence of underweight was 15.6% (95%CI: 14.1-17.1%). Higher prevalence rates of underweight were found among women, individuals aged ≥ 80 years, smokers and those who reported the regular consumption of beans. The prevalence rate of underweight was lower among those who reported abusive alcohol intake and those with a medical diagnosis of hypertension. The northern region of the country had the highest prevalence of underweight after adjusting for associated individual factors. The findings demonstrate the subgroups with higher prevalence rates of underweight that demand greater attention from the health services in terms of recovering of an adequate nutritional status.

Anthropometric Measures and Frailty Prediction in the Elderly: An Easy-to-Use Tool

Purpose

Anthropometry is a useful tool for assessing some risk factors for frailty. Thus, the aim of this study was to verify the discriminatory performance of anthropometric measures in identifying frailty in the elderly and to create an easy-to-use tool.

Methods

Cross-sectional study: a subset from the Multidimensional Study of the Elderly in the Family Health Strategy (EMI-SUS) evaluating 538 older adults. Individuals were classified using the Fried Phenotype criteria, and 26 anthropometric measures were obtained. The predictive ability of anthropometric measures in identifying frailty was identified through logistic regression and an artificial neural network. The accuracy of the final models was assessed with an ROC curve.

Results

The final model comprised the following predictors: weight, waist circumference, bicipital skinfold, sagittal abdominal diameter, and age. The final neural network models presented a higher ROC curve of 0.78 (CI 95% 0.74–0.82) (P < 0.001) than the logistic regression model, with an ROC curve of 0.71 (CI 95% 0.66–0.77) (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The neural network model provides a reliable tool for identifying prefrailty/frailty in the elderly, with the advantage of being easy to apply in the primary health care. It may help to provide timely interventions to ameliorate the risk of adverse events.

[Nutritional status of elderly Brazilians: a multilevel approach]

The objectives of this study were to diagnose the nutritional status of the elderly Brazilian population and to identify associated factors. The study used data from the Brazilian Household Budget Survey (2008/2009) for 20,114 elderly, whose nutritional status was assessed by body mass index (BMI). Associated factors were tested with the Pearson chi-square test and multilevel linear models. The hierarchical analysis showed a significant effect of state of Brazil on BMI variance (p-value = 0.001). The individual level showed a negative association (p-value < 0.001) with Asian-descendant race, male gender, living alone, and older age and a positive association with per capita income. Underweight was more prevalent among elderly in rural areas (26.3%) and in the Northeast (23.7%) and Central regions (20.9%), and obesity was more prevalent in the South (45.1%) and Southeast (38.3%) and in cities (39%). The study suggests the importance of further in-depth research on nutritional status of elderly based on contextual variables.

Anthropometric characteristics and body composition in Mexican older adults: age and sex differences

Anthropometric reference data for older adults, particularly for the oldest old, are still limited, especially in developing countries. The aim of the present study was to describe sex- and age-specific distributions of anthropometric measurements and body composition in Mexican older adults. The methods included in the present study were assessment of height, weight, BMI, calf circumference (CC), waist circumference (WC) and hip circumference (HC) as well as knee height in a sample of 8883 Mexican adults aged 60 years and above and the estimation of sex- and age-specific differences in these measures. Results of the study (n 7865, 54 % women) showed that men are taller, have higher BMI, and larger WC than women, whereas women presented higher prevalence of obesity and adiposity. Overall prevalence of underweight was 2·3 % in men and 4·0 % in women, with increasing prevalence with advancing age. Significant differences were found by age group for weight, height, WC, HC, CC, BMI and knee height (P<0·001), but no significant differences in waist–hip circumference were observed. Significant differences between men and women were found in height, weight, circumferences, BMI and knee height (P<0·001). These results, which are consistent with studies of older adults in other countries, can be used for comparison with other Mexican samples including populations living in the USA and other countries with similar developmental and socio-economic conditions. This information can also be used as reference in clinical settings as a tool for detection of individuals at risk of either underweight or overweight and obesity.

Comparação de medidas antropométricas de idosos residentes em área urbana no sul do Brasil, segundo sexo e faixa etária

OBJETIVO: Comparar o índice de massa corporal (IMC), dobra cutânea tricipital (DCT), perímetro do braço (PB), circunferência muscular do braço (CMB) e área muscular do braço em idosos (AMB), segundo sexo e faixa etária. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal realizado com idosos residentes na área urbana de Sarandi-PR, selecionados a partir dos setores censitários e domicílios. Os dados foram coletados no período de outubro de 2010 a março de 2011, com verificação de peso, estatura, PB e DCT e após, calculados IMC, CMB e AMB. Os valores obtidos apresentam-se sob a forma de média, desvio-padrão e percentil, com comparação entre os sexos e as faixas etárias. Na análise foram utilizados os testes Qui-quadrado, t Student, ANOVA e Tukey. Diferenças entre os valores médios foram consideradas significativas quando p<0,05. RESULTADOS: Os valores médios do IMC (28,80 x 27,26), DCT (20,93 x 12,52) e PB (31,92 x 30,90) foram significativamente maiores entre as mulheres, enquanto os homens apresentaram valores médios de CMB (26,97 x 25,35) significativamente maiores. A média da AMB também foi maior entre os homens (48,97 x 45,81), mas não de forma significativa. Os valores médios de todas as variáveis diminuíram com o avançar da idade nos dois sexos, com exceção da DCT nos homens. Observou-se, ainda, que a proporção de idosos com obesidade foi significativamente maior entre as mulheres (35,9% x 24,2%). CONCLUSÃO: Mulheres apresentaram valores médios maiores para a maioria das variáveis antropométricas analisadas. A diminuição nos valores dessas variáveis com o avançar da idade nos dois sexos, inclusive de forma mais acentuada nas mulheres, constitui indicativo da necessidade de monitoramento nutricional e de implementação de estratégias que evitem perdas patológicas na composição corporal de idosos.

A influência da composição corporal na força de homens idosos brasileiros

INTRODUÇÃO: A população de idosos representa 10% do total da população brasileira. A diminuição da musculatura esquelética é provavelmente a alteração mais significativa, sendo associada à idade e algumas enfermidades, e é determinante na perda da força muscular. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a relação entre composição corporal e a força de preensão palmar de homens idosos brasileiros. MÉTODO: Quarenta e seis homens com idade igual ou superior a 60 anos foram divididos em 4 grupos de acordo com a percentagem de gordura e valor de massa magra. Foram definidas as medianas para %G = 28,65 e massa magra = 54,35 kg. Para as avaliações utilizou-se teste de bioimpedância elétrica e dinamômetro de preensão palmar. RESULTADOS: Observam-se diferenças significativas entre os quatro grupos quanto à massa magra e percentil de massa gorda (p≥0,05), caracterizando as especificidades de cada grupo quanto às variáveis analisadas. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados demonstram que os níveis de força de preensão palmar não dependem unicamente da massa magra, mas também %G, em que a correlação entre massa magra e percentual de gordura pode indicar uma melhor ou pior condição para realizar o esforço isométrico de preensão manual.

Association between oxidative stress and nutritional status in the elderly

Ageing is a dynamic and progressive process that is characterized by the occurrence of morphological, biochemical, functional and psychological changes in the organism. The aim of the present article is to provide updated concepts on oxidative stress, covering its importance in aging, as well as nutritional status and supplementation with antioxidants (substances that prevent or attenuate oxidation of oxidizable substrates, such as lipids, proteins, carbohydrates and deoxyribonucleic acid) in the geriatric population. Evidence suggests that there is an inverse relationship between oxidative stress and nutritional status in elderly individuals. Although an increase in oxidative stress in chronic diseases associated with aging has been proven, such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease, up to now there has been no consistent clinical evidence proving the efficiency of supplementation with antioxidants against oxidative stress. In this context, supplementation is not recommended. On the other hand, the elderly should be encouraged to eat antioxidant foods, such as fruits and vegetables. Maintaining a normal weight (body mass index between 23 and 28 Kg/m(2)) should also be stimulated.

Nutritional status, physical performance and functional capacity in an elderly population in southern Brazil

Objective: to investigate the association between nutritional status and functional limitation and disability in an elderly population in southern Brazil. Methods: epidemiological, cross-sectional household-based study carried out with 477 elderly of both sexes (60 to 100 years). Body mass index (BMI) served to assess the nutritional status: underweight (BMI < 22 kg/m2) and overweight (BMI > 27 kg/m2). The sum score (0-5) obtained in three tests: "chair stand" and "pick up a pen" (measured by time) and standing balance (four static measurements) assessed the functional limitation. The disability was evaluated by the difficulty in performing one or more self-reported tasks related to basic activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs). Crude and adjusted analyzes (3 models) were carried out using Poisson regression; prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. Results: crude analyzes showed a positive association between underweight and functional limitation (PR = 2.71, 95% CI = 1.63 to 4.51); overweight and disability in ADLs (PR = 2.20, CI 95% = 1.44 to 3.35); overweight and disability in IADLs (PR = 1.56, CI 95% = 1.20 to 2.03). The additional adjustments for gender, age, level of education, living arrangements, current work, cognitive function and number of morbidities reduced the strength of the associations, without changing the statistical strength. Conclusion: nutritional status is a factor that is independently and positively associated with functional limitation and disability. We recommend the use of this indicator to monitor the health of the elderly.

Nutritional assessment of institutionalized elderly

Objective:

To define the nutritional profile of institutionalized elderly individuals.

Methods:

Comparative correlation and quantitative field study conducted in a Long-Stay Institution in Sao Paulo (SP), Brazil, between December 2010 and January 2012. To define nutritional diagnosis, data were collected from patient files, such as body mass index, circumferences, triceps skinfold, muscle area of the arm, thickness of the adductor pollicis, handgrip strength, and biochemical test results. The anthropometric variables were presented as mean, standard deviation, and percentages, and were grouped by gender and stratified by age. The level of statistical significance was p<0.05.

Results:

One hundred and two elderly individuals were selected, and 84 were females. Excess weight was the most common anthropometric diagnosis in men (n=11; 61%), with the detection of protein depletion in those aged 70 years, and possible cases of sarcopenic obesity. All women were in good health conditions (n=84; 100%). However, in 27% (n=23) of them, protein depletion was evident.

Conclusion:

More anthropometric studies are necessary which would allow a definition of local reference standards, stratified by gender and age group. The difference between populations and factors, such as inclusion and exclusion criteria, and methodological characteristics, limit the use of international standards, interfering in the reliability of the nutritional diagnosis.

Estado nutricional e prevalência de doenças crônicas em idosos de um município do interior do Rio Grande do Sul

OBJETIVO: Verificar os fatores de risco que interferem no estado nutricional dos idosos socialmente ativos de um município do interior do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul. MÉTODOS: Estudo do tipo transversal, do qual participaram voluntariamente 284 idosos. Foi aplicado questionário individual estruturado contendo questões relativas aos hábitos alimentares e foram coletados os dados antropométricos (peso, altura, circunferência da cintura). RESULTADOS: 60,3% dos homens e 62,5% das mulheres estavam com sobrepeso. Com base na avaliação da circunferência da cintura, verificou-se um risco muito aumentado para o desenvolvimento de doenças cardiovasculares em 98,5% dos homens e 92,5% das mulheres. A maioria das mulheres (56,9%) informou usar algum medicamento contínuo, enquanto que entre os homens (52,5%), a maioria respondeu não consumir nenhum medicamento. Não se observou diferença significativa entre os diferentes estados nutricionais e os hábitos alimentares investigados. Entre os casados, o sobrepeso foi encontrado em 47,1% dos homens e em 35,6% das mulheres. CONCLUSÃO: A maioria da população idosa estudada apresentou sobrepeso e circunferência da cintura elevada entre homens e mulheres. Não se observou associação entre o estado nutricional e o número de refeições, ingestão de água, consumo diário de frutas e verduras, tipo de leite ingerido, consumo semanal de carnes, doces, frituras e leguminosas.

Perfil antropométrico dos idosos residentes em Campina Grande-PB

O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever o perfil antropométrico dos idosos residentes em Campina Grande - PB. Este estudo é populacional, transversal e domiciliar. Os dados são apresentados sob a forma de média, desvio-padrão e percentil (P5, P10, P25, P50, P75, P90 e P95) do peso, estatura, índice de massa corporal (IMC), perímetro do braço (PB), dobra cutânea tricipital (DCT), circunferência muscular do braço (CMB), perímetro da panturrilha (PP) e perímetro da cintura (PC). Foi realizado o teste t Student para verificar a diferença dos valores médios das variáveis entre os sexos. Foi realizada a análise de variância (ANOVA) para verificar o efeito da idade nas variáveis. Foram avaliados 806 idosos (60 anos ou mais). Os valores médios de todas as variáveis apresentaram diferença estatisticamente significativa entre os sexos. As médias das variáveis peso, estatura, CMB, PP e PC foram significativamente maiores entre os homens, enquanto que as médias de IMC, PB e DCT foram significativamente maiores entre as mulheres. Todas as variáveis apresentaram tendência de declínio entre os grupos etários mais avançados. Os resultados mostram que o padrão antropométrico dos idosos deste estudo segue a tendência de outros estudos, no entanto, os valores diferem. Dessa forma, sugere-se que estes possam ser usados para auxiliar na avaliação antropométrica de idosos.

Prevalence of overweight and obesity in elderly people from Vitória-ES, Brazil

The scope of this study was to estimate the prevalence of overweight and obesity and its association with socio-economic status in a sample of non-institutionalized elderly people from Vitória-ES, Brazil. This was a cross-sectional survey with a sample of 882 elderly people aged 60 and over. Obesity and overweight were assessed using the body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC). All subjects answered a personal and socio-demographic questionnaire in relation to age, gender, marital status, physical activity, number of children, chronic diseases and smoking. Associations between categorical variables were tested using chi-square analysis with a 5% significance level. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was high (41.8% and 23.4%, respectively) and 50.7% of the elderly had a substantially increased waist circumference. About 4.3% of the individuals had diabetes, 50.4% had hypertension and 14.9% were found to have both diseases. It was observed that both the BMI and WC were significant associated (p<0.05) with sex, marital status, the presence of diseases and with cigarette smoking.

Anthropometric indices in relation to overweight and obesity among Turkish medical students

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to present the reference anthropometric data associated with obesity for cardiovascular risk and metabolic diseases for healthy young adults in a Turkish population.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study group consisted of 1163 second-year medical students (650 women, 513 men) aged 20-25 years from Çukurova University in Adana and the measurements were made using a flexible standard measuring tape. The data were collected during the period 2007-2011.

RESULTS

From 1163 medical students, the mean values of body mass index, circumferences of waist, hip, neck, mid-arm, thigh and calf were 20.89 ±1.6 kg/m(2), 73.15 ±5.1 cm, 95.35 ±4.8 cm, 30.32 ±1.37 cm, 24.12 ±1.75 cm, 47.23 ±3.26 cm and 34.36 ±2.19 cm respectively in women, while the same measurements were 21.98 ±1.67 kg/m(2), 77.73 ±5.81 cm, 95.64 ±4.81 cm, 35.61 ±1.43 cm, 25.60 ±1.84 cm, 44.10 ±3.26 cm and 34.92 ±2.08 cm respectively in men. Moreover, waist to hip ratio, waist to height ratio and neck to height ratio were respectively 0.76, 0.44 and 0.18 in women and 0.81, 0.43 and 0.19 in men.

CONCLUSIONS

The precise knowledge of anthropometric data could be used as reference values for evaluating the body composition and fat distribution of Turkish young people.

Relation between oral health and nutritional condition in the elderly

Oral health is a prerequisite for a good chewing function, which may have an impact on food choices and nutritional well-being.

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to evaluate the relationship between oral health status and nutritional status in the elderly.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 33 elderly people from the Group for the Elderly Interdisciplinary Geriatrics and Gerontology Program, at Fluminense Federal University, Niteroi, RJ, Brazil, completed a questionnaire to collect information on socioeconomic status, eating habits, physical activity and health habits, undertook a clinical oral examination, blood test, and anthropometric measurements, and were allocated into groups according to age. The oral health status was assessed using the index for decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT). The nutritional status was assessed using hemoglobin, hematocrit and albumin concentrations in blood, anthropometric values and the body mass index.

RESULTS

Tooth loss was the biggest nuisance to the elderly subjects (57.6%), followed by the use of dentures (30.3%) and ill-fitting dentures (33.3%). 66.6% of patients had difficulty in chewing, and 54.5% reported this to be due to prostheses and 13.6% to the absence of teeth. A significant correlation was found between DMFT and the value of suprailiac skinfold thickness (rho=0.380, p=0.029).

CONCLUSION

The results support the temporal association between tooth loss and detrimental changes in anthropometry, which could contribute to increased risk of developing chronic diseases.

Estado nutricional e fatores associados em idosos do Município de Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brasil

Investigaram-se as prevalências de baixo peso e excesso de peso, bem como os fatores associados em idosos. Trata-se de um estudo transversal, com 621 idosos residentes no Município de Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brasil, realizado em 2009. As informações foram obtidas por meio de entrevistas domiciliares e se referiam à avaliação do estado nutricional, condições sociodemográficas e de saúde. Do total de pessoas estudadas, 53,3% eram do gênero feminino. A mediana do IMC foi de 26,40kg/m² (mínima 15,20 e máxima 46,82) e foi menor para os homens do que para as mulheres. A prevalência de excesso de peso foi elevada (45%; IC95%: 40%-49%), diminuiu com a idade, associou-se positivamente ao gênero feminino e história de artrite/artrose, e negativamente à faixa etária de 80 anos ou mais e ao tabagismo. A prevalência de baixo peso foi maior no gênero masculino (18,2%), aumentou com o avanço da idade e associou-se positivamente à pior percepção de saúde. O conjunto dos resultados salientam a importância de estratégias em saúde que favoreçam mudanças no estilo de vida e hábitos alimentares saudáveis.

Birth cohort differences in anthropometric measures in the older elderly: the Bambuí cohort study of aging (1997 and 2008)

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of birth cohort on nutritional status among older elderly (71-81 years old) from the Bambuí Cohort Study of Aging, conducted in Brazil in 1997 and 2008. We compared the two birth cohorts - 1916-1926 (older cohort) and 1927-1937 (recent cohort) - considering body mass index (BMI = weight/height²), waist circumference (WC) and prevalence of overweight (BMI ³ 27kg/m²). BMI (β = 0.09, 95%CI: 0.04, 0.15) and prevalence of overweight (PR = 1.02; 95%CI: 1.01; 1.03) were higher in the recent cohort than the earlier cohort, regardless of sex and schooling. No difference was observed in WC. Stratified by sex, similar overall trends were observed for men, and WC was higher in the recent cohort. Among women there was no difference in BMI and overweight, but WC was lower in the recent cohort. The cohort effect was greater among older men and, in the near future, may result in greater prevalence of overweight in this group.

Nutritional status, health conditions and socio-demographic factors in the elderly of Havana, Cuba: data from SABE survey

OBJECTIVE

To assess the association of nutritional status with sex, age, race/color, education, smoking, physical activity, hypertension, diabetes, and hospitalization in older adults residing in the city of Havana, Cuba.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional, population-based household survey. A total of 1,905 persons (1,197 women and 708 men; ≥ 60 years) were examined between 1999 and 2000, selected by probabilistic sampling. Nutritional status was assessed by body mass index (BMI): BMI < 22.0 kg/m2 = underweight; BMI > 27.0 kg/m2 = overweight. Multinomial logistic regression analysis (crude and adjusted) was used.

RESULTS

The estimation of the prevalence of underweight was 33.0% and that of overweight was 29.6%. The adjusted regression model showed that the probability of underweight was higher in older age groups (OR = 1.63, 70-79 years; OR = 2.05, ≥ 80 years) and among smokers (OR = 1.83). There was negative association between underweight, and hypertension and diabetes. Hypertension (OR = 1.99) was positively associated with overweight. The lower likelihood of overweight was observed among men, smokers, and those aged 80 years and more.

CONCLUSION

The elderly population of Havana presents a vulnerable nutritional status in view of the prevalence of underweight and overweight. Increasing age, smoking, gender, and hypertension are the factors positively associated with vulnerable nutritional status.

Dental and gastrointestinal changes as indicators of nutritional depletion in elderly inpatients

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to identify the associations between the nutritional status of elderly patients and length of hospital stay and presence of dental and gastrointestinal changes.

CASUISTIC AND METHOD

This cross-sectional study analyzed anthropometric and food intake indicators, dental and gastrointestinal changes and length of hospital stay of 441 elderly patients of both genders. The Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to verify the correlation between the nutritional status of the elderly patients and length of hospital stay and presence of dental and gastrointestinal changes. The significance level was set at P < 0.05.

RESULTS

Dietary and anthropometric variables as well as length of hospital stay were similar for patients with and without dental changes. Patients with gastrointestinal changes consumed less energy (P < 0.05) than patients without gastrointestinal changes. Length of hospital stay was inversely correlated with body mass index (r = -0.15; P < 0.05); arm circumference was inversely correlated with presence of dental changes (r = -0.12; P < 0.05) and mid-arm muscle circumference was inversely correlated with gastrointestinal changes (r = -0.12; P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Dental and gastrointestinal changes are important indicators of nutritional depletion and dietary intake of inpatients.

Avaliação antropométrica de idosos residentes em Instituições de Longa Permanência de Fortaleza-CE

OBJETIVO: Avaliar as variáveis antropométricas de idosos residentes em instituições de longa permanência (ILP) de Fortaleza/CE. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Foram investigados idosos (60 anos ou mais), de ambos os sexos, residentes em seis instituições de longa permanência da cidade de Fortaleza. As variáveis antropométricas avaliadas foram: índice de massa corporal (IMC), dobra cutânea tricipital (DCT) e circunferência muscular do braço (CMB). Para análise do IMC, DCT e CMB, foram utilizados os valores propostos por Kuczmarski et al. (2000), que são apresentados em percentis. RESULTADOS: Foram avaliados 305 idosos (69,2% mulheres), cuja média etária foi 75,9 anos (DP=9,5 anos). Os resultados indicaram que, quanto ao IMC, 66% dos homens apresentaram baixo peso. As mulheres apresentaram maior prevalência de excesso de peso (12,3%), quando comparadas aos homens (7,4%). Quanto ao grupo etário, os idosos do grupo 60-69 anos apresentaram maior prevalência de baixo peso (58,4%). De acordo com a DCT, as mulheres apresentaram maior prevalência de reduzida reserva adiposa (31,5%), em relação aos homens. Os idosos com 80 anos ou mais apresentaram elevada proporção de indivíduos com excesso de reserva adiposa (35,6%), quando comparados aos demais grupos etários. A proporção de idosos desnutridos, quanto à CMB, foi elevada em ambos os sexos (91,7% e 77,2% dos homens e mulheres, respectivamente). Em todos os grupos etários, os idosos apresentaram elevadas prevalências de desnutrição. CONCLUSÕES: De acordo com estes resultados, conclui-se que os idosos residentes em instituições de longa permanência da cidade de Fortaleza apresentam risco nutricional, o que implica a necessidade de intervenções.

Antropometria de idosos residentes no município de Joinville-SC, Brasil

OBJETIVO: Fornecer dados antropométricos de idosos residentes na área urbana do município de Joinville, SC. Metodologia: Foram analisados 218 idosos com idade igual ou superior a 60 anos, de ambos os sexos, não institucionalizados e residentes na área urbana da cidade de Joinville-SC, no ano de 2002. Os idosos foram apresentados segundo sexo e grupo etário: 60-69 anos, 70-79 anos e 80 e mais. As variáveis antropométricas foram apresentadas sob a forma de média, desvio-padrão e percentil (P5, P10, P25, P50, P75, P90 e P95). RESULTADOS: Dos 218 idosos, 130 (59,6%) foram mulheres e 88 (40,4%) homens. Apesar de os valores médios da maioria das variáveis investigadas sugerirem uma tendência a diminuir com o aumento da idade, não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa dos valores médios entre os grupos etários para ambos os sexos (p>0,05). Quando comparados por sexo, os valores médios de IMC, CQ e DCT das mulheres foram significativamente superiores aos dos homens. Estes, em contrapartida, apresentaram valor médio da CC significativamente superior ao das mulheres (p<0,05). CONCLUSÃO: A maioria dos estudos realizados com idosos em outros países tem investigado esta categoria considerando pessoas com idade igual ou superior a 65 anos, o que dificulta a comparação com os dados brasileiros. Somado a outros estudos realizados com idosos no Brasil, os dados obtidos neste estudo podem contribuir para a construção de um padrão antropométrico da população idosa brasileira, ainda inexistente no país.

The use of calf circumference measurement as an anthropometric tool to monitor nutritional status in elderly inpatients

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to identify the nutritional status of hospitalized elderly and verify if calf circumference can be a tool to monitor nutritional status in this population.

METHODS

A total of 170 inpatients (79 men and 91 women) aged more than 60 years were assessed. Anthropometric and dietary assessments were done according to standard procedures. The software STATISTICA 6.0 was used for the statistical analysis. The confidence interval was set at 95% and significance level at 5% (p < 0.05).

RESULTS

Body mass index assessment revealed a high rate of underweight patients (45.3%), and arm circumference and triceps skinfold revealed a high prevalence of depletion. Males had more lean mass according to the mid-arm muscle circumference (p=0.017) and mid-arm muscle area (p=0.01), and females presented higher triceps skinfold values (p < 0.001). There was a positive correlation between calf circumference and Body Mass Index (p < 0.001), arm circumference (p=0.001), triceps skinfold (p=0.001), mid-arm muscle circumference (p=0.001), and mid-arm muscle area (p=0.001).

CONCLUSION

This study found a positive correlation between calf circumference and nutritional status of assessed patients indicating that this measurement can be used as a complementary tool for monitoring the nutritional status of elderly inpatients.

The effect of obesity and gender on body segment parameters in older adults

BACKGROUND

Anthropometry is a necessary aspect of aging-related research, especially in biomechanics and injury prevention. Little information is available on inertial parameters in the geriatric population that account for gender and obesity effects. The goal of this study was to report body segment parameters in adults aged 65 years and older, and to investigate the impact of aging, gender and obesity.

METHODS

Eighty-three healthy old (65-75 years) and elderly (>75 years) adults were recruited to represent a range of body types. Participants underwent a whole body dual energy X-ray absorptiometry scan. Analysis was limited to segment mass, length, longitudinal center of mass position, and frontal plane radius of gyration. A mixed-linear regression model was performed using gender, obesity, age group and two-way and three-way interactions (alpha=0.05).

FINDINGS

Mass distribution varied with obesity and gender. Males had greater trunk and upper extremity mass while females had a higher lower extremity mass. In general, obese elderly adults had significantly greater trunk segment mass with less thigh and shank segment mass than all others. Gender and obesity effects were found in center of mass and radius of gyration. Non-obese individuals possessed a more distal thigh and shank center of mass than obese. Interestingly, females had more distal trunk center of mass than males.

INTERPRETATION

Age, obesity and gender have a significant impact on segment mass, center of mass and radius of gyration in old and elderly adults. This study underlines the need to consider age, obesity and gender when utilizing anthropometric data sets.

Avaliação nutricional de idosos em uma instituição por diferentes instrumentos

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o risco nutricional de idosos institucionalizados por diferentes instrumentos de avaliação nutricional. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com 37 idosos (60 a 100 anos) residentes em Instituição de Longa Permanência do Distrito Federal. A avaliação incluiu diferentes critérios antropométricos: índice de massa corporal, circunferência do braço, da panturrilha, da intura, razão cintura/quadril, perda e ganho ponderal, contagem total de linfócitos e a aplicação da Mini Avaliação Nutricional. RESULTADOS: As proporções de 36,1% de desnutridos, 16,7% de sobrepeso + obesidade e 47,2% de eutróficos foram verificadas, quando a medida de circunferência do braço foi o instrumento utilizado. A avaliação realizada com o índice de massa corporal mostrou a presença de 47,9% de eutrofia, menor proporção de baixo peso (27,0%) e de sobrepeso (27,0%). O risco para doenças cardiovasculares, segundo a circunferência da cintura, foi estimado em 86,4% das mulheres e 57,1% dos homens. Contudo, quando este mesmo risco foi julgado utilizando-se a razão entre a circunferência da cintura e a circunferência do quadril, a proporção de 95,5% foi significantemente maior no grupo de mulheres (42,9%, masculino). A depleção imunológica foi constatada em 46,7% dos homens e 66,7% das mulheres. O estado nutricional, classificado pela Mini Avaliação Nutricional, apontou 50,0% de mulheres e 40,0% de homens com risco de desnutrição. O risco nutricional foi observado em 83,8% dos idosos quando considerada, como critério para este diagnóstico, a presença de pelo menos um dos índices antropométricos abaixo da normalidade. Resultado semelhante, de 75,7% de risco, foi obtido com a Mini Avaliação Nutricional. CONCLUSÃO: Na instituição sob estudo uma maioria significativa de idosos, independentemente do sexo, apresentou risco nutricional, a julgar pelos indicadores antropométricos utilizados ou pela Mini Avaliação Nutricional.

Prevalência de sobrepeso e obesidade geral e central em mulheres idosas da cidade de Curitiba, Paraná

OBJETIVO: Investigar a prevalência de sobrepeso e obesidade geral e central em uma amostra representativa da população de mulheres idosas do município de Curitiba, Paraná. MÉTODOS: Este estudo apresentou delineamento observacional, transversal e descritivo. As variáveis índice de massa corporal e da circunferência de cintura foram obtidas para a determinação do sobrepeso e obesidade geral e central, respectivamente. Medidas de tendência central, variabilidade, freqüências relativas e absolutas em cada faixa etária, dentro das categorias de índice de massa corporal e circunferência de cintura, foram verificadas. RESULTADOS: Participaram deste estudo 1069 mulheres com idade superior a 60 anos (média=69,5, desvio-padrão=6,1 anos). Em relação às categorias do índice de massa corporal, a maioria dos sujeitos teve seu estado nutricional classificado como sobrepeso (43,5%), seguido por obesidade (34,0%) e normalidade (22,5%). Por sua vez, a obesidade (45,1%) foi a condição nutricional prevalente em relação às categorias para a circunferência de cintura, seguida por sobrepeso (33,1%) e normalidade (21,8%). Além disso, o sobrepeso e a obesidade geral diminuíram da primeira para a última faixa etária (-20,4% e -11,6%, respectivamente), enquanto a normalidade elevou-se substancialmente (+75,3%). Resultados similares foram verificados em relação à adiposidade central, nos quais as condições de sobrepeso e obesidade declinaram 14,3% e 8,3%, respectivamente. CONCLUSÃO: Uma elevada prevalência de sobrepeso e obesidade geral e central foi verificada entre as mulheres idosas da cidade de Curitiba (PR), independentemente da idade. Programas públicos visando à prevenção e à redução do excesso de adiposidade corporal a partir de intervenção nos padrões de ingestão dietética e gasto energético, como a prática regular de exercício físico, tornam-se necessários nesta população.

Avaliação do estado nutricional de idosos institucionalizados

OBJETIVO: Identificar o estado nutricional, segundo o índice de massa corporal, e fornecer informações sobre medidas antropométricas de idosos institucionalizados no município de Florianópolis (SC). MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal, no qual a população em estudo foi composta por 232 idosos, com idade a partir de 60 anos, residentes em instituições geriátricas do município de Florianópolis (SC). A avaliação antropométrica foi realizada obtendo-se o valor do índice de massa corporal, da prega cutânea triciptal e da circunferência da panturrilha. O diagnóstico do estado nutricional foi realizado utilizando-se os pontos de corte preconizados pela Organização Pan-Americana de Saúde para índice de massa corporal. Os dados são apresentados sob a forma de média e desvio-padrão. Foi realizado o teste t de Student para verificar a diferença entre os valores médios das variáveis entre os sexos. RESULTADOS: A amostra constituiu-se de 167 idosos de ambos os sexos. Encontrou-se uma prevalência de 45,5% de baixo peso, 33,5% de peso normal, 7,8% de pré-obesidade e 13,2% de obesidade. Para todas as variáveis antropométricas, o valor médio das mulheres foi superior ao dos homens. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados encontrados indicaram a prevalência de 66,5% da amostra com estado nutricional inadequado, evidenciando a necessidade de medidas de promoção ou reabilitação da saúde dos idosos. Os dados mostram que há diferenças entre os sexos com relação ao estado nutricional e às variáveis índice de massa corporal e prega cutânea triciptal, além de contribuírem para a ampliação do referencial antropométrico de idosos institucionalizados.

Perfil dos indicadores de gordura e massa muscular corporal dos idosos de Fortaleza, Ceará, Brasil

O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever as variáveis indicadoras de gordura e massa muscular dos idosos de Fortaleza, Ceará, Brasil. Este estudo é populacional, transversal, domiciliar, realizado com idosos (60 anos ou mais) residentes em Fortaleza. As variáveis verificadas foram: dobra cutânea tricipital (DCT), área de gordura do braço (AGB), perímetro do braço (PB), circunferência muscular do braço (CMB), área muscular do braço (AMB) e área muscular do braço corrigida (AMBc). Foram avaliados 483 idosos. O valor médio da DCT das mulheres foi significativamente superior ao dos homens (p < 0,05), assim como o valor médio da AGB (p < 0,05). As variáveis CMB, AMB e AMBc apresentaram valor médio maior entre os homens, quando comparados às mulheres (p < 0,05). Em todas as variáveis houve diminuição dos valores médios e percentil com o avançar dos grupos etários, com exceção do percentil da DCT para as mulheres. O padrão antropométrico e de composição corporal dos idosos deste trabalho segue a tendência de outros estudos, no entanto, os valores diferem. Com isso, sugere-se que as informações deste estudo sejam utilizadas como padrão de referência para idosos de Fortaleza.