[Body composition: assessment and clinical value]

Abstract

Obesity control and prevention is a complex task that requires a thorough understanding of the physiological basis and body composition. In Spain, as in most countries, anthropometric criteria, such as weight, height, body mass index, skinfold thickness and body circumferences have traditionally been used to define obesity and general eating disorders, but these variables have little sensitivity for monitoring response to treatment. This is why evaluation of body composition may qualify this process. The aim of this paper was to review some relatively simple techniques to assess body composition and their clinical value in patients.