Adult obesity diagnostic tool: A narrative review

Medicine (Baltimore). 2024 Apr 26;103(17):e37946. doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000037946.

Abstract

Obesity is a complex chronic metabolic disorder characterized by abnormalities in lipid metabolism. Obesity is not only associated with various chronic diseases but also has negative effects on physiological functions such as the cardiovascular, endocrine and immune systems. As a global health problem, the incidence and prevalence of obesity have increased significantly in recent years. Therefore, understanding assessment methods and measurement indicators for obesity is critical for early screening and effective disease control. Current methods for measuring obesity in adult include density calculation, anthropometric measurements, bioelectrical impedance analysis, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, computerized imaging, etc. Measurement indicators mainly include weight, hip circumference, waist circumference, neck circumference, skinfold thickness, etc. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the literature to date, summarizes and analyzes various assessment methods and measurement indicators for adult obesity, and provides insights and guidance for the innovation of obesity assessment indicators.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Absorptiometry, Photon
  • Adult
  • Anthropometry / methods
  • Body Mass Index
  • Humans
  • Obesity* / diagnosis
  • Obesity* / epidemiology