Norm of women body mass index in Isfahan

Abstract

Introduction: A simple indicator of total body fat is body mass index (BMI). This indicator is suggested as an accurate instrument to evaluate total body fat, because it is cheaper, easier to use by the patient and health personnel and easy to be calculated. The present research was conducted to determine the norm of women BMI as well as their personal and reproductive characteristics in Isfahan.

Methods: This was a descriptive cross–sectional study. The samples were 384 women in Isfahan selected by cluster sampling method, referred to 10 health centers of the city. In this research, the evaluation instruments included a questionnaire, adult standard scales and standard meter tape. Collected data were analyzed by SPSS software and descriptive statistical method.

Results: Results indicated that the mean, median and standard deviation of women BMI were 26.78 kg/m², 26.2 kg/m² and 4.46 kg/m², respectively. The minimum and maximum of women BMI were 17 kg/m² and 43.5 kg/m², respectively. Also, it was determined that in 48.4% of women, BMI was less than 26.2 kg/m² while in 51.6% it was equal or more than 26.2 kg/m².

Conclusion: Median of women BMI in Isfahan is higher than that in USA and Canada (median = 25). Perhaps this difference is due to some factors such as genetics, race, geographical status, lack or insufficiency of physical activity as well as incorrect nutritional patterns. So, the women are recommended to take exercises, to have more physical activity and to improve their nutritional patterns to stay physically fit and prevent overweight and obesity. In order to prevent overweight and obesity, women's BMI should be determined by health personnel and if necessary, they should be referred to a nutritionist.