ABSTRACT
Low-grade systemic inflammation is emerging as a component of the metabolic syndrome. The purpose of this study was to assess the association between serum C-reactive protein (CRP); physical activity and body composition in 193 black children aged 13 to 18 years from a South African township. Demographic information and anthropometric measurements were taken; and fasting blood samples were analysed for high-sensitivity serum CRP. Body fat was measured by air displacement plethysmography. There was a trend towards higher serum CRP in the boys with a higher percentage body fat. After multiple regression analyses; waist circumference in the girls was significantly associated with serum CRP. In the boys; there was an inverse correlation between percentage body fat and fitness; and between fitness and serum CRP. Significant differences were found between serum CRP in the different physical activity categories; with lower serum CRP in the girls in the higher physical activity group. Obesity should be prevented in South African children by encouraging physical activity