Novel anthropometric parameters to define obesity and obesity-related disease in adults: a systematic review

Context: Obesity is defined as an abnormal or excessive accumulation of body fat. Traditionally, it has been assessed using a wide range of anthropometric, biochemical, and radiological measurements, with each having its advantages and disadvantages.

Objective: A systematic review of the literature was conducted to identify novel anthropometric measurements of obesity in adults.

Data sources: Using a combination of MeSH terms, the PubMed database was searched.

Data extraction: The current systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. The data extracted from each study were (1) details of the study, (2) anthropometric parameter(s) evaluated, (3) study methods, (4) objectives of the study and/or comparisons, and (5) main findings/conclusions of the study.

Data analysis: The search yielded 2472 articles, of which 66 studies were deemed eligible to be included. The literature search identified 25 novel anthropometric parameters. Data on novel anthropometric parameters were derived from 26 countries. Majority were descriptive cross-sectional studies (n = 43), while 22 were cohort studies. Age range of the study populations was 17-103 years, while sample size varied from 45 to 384 612.

Conclusions: The novel anthropometric parameters identified in the present study showed variable correlation with obesity and/or related metabolic risk factors. Some parameters involved complex calculations, while others were derived from traditional anthropometric measurements. Further research is required in order to determine the accuracy and precision.