Ethnicity-specific cut-offs that predict co-morbidities: the way forward for optimal utility of obesity indicators

J Biosoc Sci. 2019 Jul;51(4):624-626. doi: 10.1017/S0021932019000178. Epub 2019 Apr 4.

Abstract

Obesity indicators are useful clinical tools in the measurement of obesity, but it is important for clinicians to appropriately interpret their values in individuals with different ethnicities. Future research is needed to identify optimal cut-offs that can predict the occurrence of cardio-metabolic comorbidities in individuals of different ethnic descent. Assessment of more recently developed indicators like the Edmonton Obesity Staging System and visceral adipose tissue are able to appropriately identify metabolically at-risk individuals.

Keywords: Ethnicity specific cut-offs; Normal-weight obesity; Obesity indicators.

Publication types

  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Adiposity*
  • Asian People
  • Body Mass Index
  • Ethnicity*
  • Humans
  • Obesity