Background/aims: Although childhood obesity is a major problem, routine assessment methods do not reflect fat mass. Body mass index, which is most commonly used, gives an indication of weight for height and not a degree of adiposity.
Methods: Bioelectrical impedance and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) were used in a group of obese children to assess body fat.
Results: Comparison between DEXA and commercial bioelectrical impedance scales in 46 children showed a highly significant correlation (R = 0.944, p < 0.001) in fat mass. Fat mass measured using bioelectrical impedance was 2.4 kg lower compared to measurement using DEXA.
Conclusion: These bioelectrical scales may prove useful in the management of childhood obesity as they are able to provide important clinical information regarding fat mass and adiposity.
Copyright 2007 S. Karger AG, Basel.