Accuracy of different body mass index cutoffs to predict excessive body fat and abdominal obesity in adolescents

Abstract

OBJECTIVE. To analyze the agreement and accuracy of three body mass Index cutoffs in the identification of excessive body fat and abdominal obesity In adolescents. METHODS. Cross-sectional analysis was carried out for which 807 adolescents of both sexes (11 to 17 years old) were recruited and their body mass, stature, waist circumference and body fat percentage measured, The ROC evaluated the accuracy of the body mass index cutoffs. RESULTS. The cutoffs analyzed showed a moderate level of agreement in the indication of abdominal obesity (0.54 to 0,66), and high rates of sensitivity (77,4% to 92.8%) and specificity (75,6% to 91.6%) for indication of the nutritional status. Cutoff of Brazilians was more sensitive in the indication of associated excessive body fat and abdominal obesity (97.8%). CONCLUSION. All cutoffs analyzed showed similar accuracy in the indication of nutritional status and abdominal obesity, however, the cutoff of Brazilians was more sensitive in the Identification of obese individuals with high cardiovascular risk.