Anatomical Assessment of the Relationship between Body Mass Index and Waist–Hip Ratio among Nigerian Adults

Anatomical Assessment of the Relationship between Body Mass Index and Waist–Hip Ratio among Nigerian Adults

CHAPTER ONE

1.1 Background of the Study

Body composition is a major factor in determining overall health and physical fitness. Two important anthropometric indicators used to assess it are the Body Mass Index (BMI) and the Waist–Hip Ratio (WHR) (World Health Organization, 2020). BMI provides a general estimate of body fat based on height and weight, while WHR measures fat distribution around the waist and hips.

Both indicators are essential in predicting the risk of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Individuals with a higher waist circumference relative to the hips often show greater susceptibility to diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. On the other hand, BMI helps classify individuals as underweight, normal, overweight, or obese.

Although BMI is widely used, it does not distinguish between fat and muscle mass. Therefore, combining BMI with WHR offers a more accurate reflection of body fat distribution and health risk. Since body composition can vary by ethnicity and lifestyle, local studies are important for establishing population-specific standards.

This study aims to examine the relationship between BMI and WHR among Nigerian adults. The findings will enhance understanding of body fat distribution patterns and contribute to better public health assessments.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Many Nigerian health centers rely on foreign BMI and WHR reference values. However, these values may not accurately represent local body composition. In addition, there is limited data on how these two indices relate among Nigerians, making it difficult to assess obesity risk effectively.

1.3 Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of this study is to assess the relationship between Body Mass Index and Waist–Hip Ratio among Nigerian adults.

The specific objectives are to:

1. Measure the height, weight, waist, and hip circumferences of participants.

2. Calculate BMI and WHR from the collected data.

3. Determine the correlation between BMI and WHR values.

1.4 Significance of the Study

This study will help public health professionals, nutritionists, and physiologists develop better obesity screening strategies. It will also provide reference data that reflect Nigerian body composition patterns. Moreover, the results will assist researchers and educators in understanding anthropometric variations within the population.

1.5 Scope of the Study

The study will include healthy adult Nigerians aged 18 to 50 years. Participants with chronic metabolic diseases or physical deformities affecting body measurements will be excluded.

1.6 Operational Definition of Terms

• Body Mass Index (BMI): A numerical value calculated by dividing body weight (kg) by height squared (m²).

• Waist–Hip Ratio (WHR): The ratio of the waist circumference to hip circumference.

• Obesity: A condition characterized by excessive accumulation of body fat that poses health risks.