Original Research Articles

Distribution and correlates of Body Mass Index in the elderly residents of the Colombo District

Authors:

Abstract

Objective: To determine the distribution and correlates of body mass index in the elderly residents of the Colombo District.

Methodology: The sample consisted of 452 subjects aged 60 years and above residing in the Colombo district of Sri Lanka. Data collection included a physical examination and an interviewer administered questionnaire.

Results: The mean BMI was significantly higher in females and the 60-70 year olds compared to males and >70 year olds. Of the sample, 46% was normal weight while 20, 16 and 18% were under weight, over weight and obese respectively. Age, gender and ethnicity were associated with being obese while ethnicity was associated with being overweight.

Conclusion: The results indicate that the prevalence of under nutrition and overweight/ obesity was high in this sample of the elderly.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/jccpsl.v17i1.4930

Journal of the College of Community Physicians of Sri Lanka Vol.17(2) June 2012 9-14

Keywords:

BMIthe elderlyobesityoverweightunder weight
  • Year: 2012
  • Volume: 17 Issue: 1
  • Page/Article: 9-14
  • DOI: 10.4038/jccpsl.v17i1.4930
  • Published on 26 Nov 2012
  • Peer Reviewed