ABSTRACT
Anthropometry is generally considered as the single most easily obtainable, inexpensive, and noninvasive method that reflects body composition and VO2max is an indication of the physical fitness of the subject. There is a paucity of data on t3he age related changes in the body composition parameters and VO2max, and the association between them in the Indian adolescent population. Hence, the present study was conceived to assess and find the association between these parameters in the students in the age group of 12-17 years. Body composition was assessed using anthropometric measures (Height, weight, BMI, waist circumference, hip circumference and skin fold thickness) and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) was assessed using estimated VO2max from Rockport Walk Fitness Test. We observed that the anthropometric measures were normal for the respective age groups and VO2max (mL/kg/min) in all the age groups in both the genders were in superior category according to Heywood classification. We observed higher body fat percentage (BF%) in girls of all the age groups compared to the boys and higher fat free mass (FFM) and VO2max in the boys of all age groups when compared to girls. VO2max showed a strong correlation with FFM (r=0.891, P<0.001) and a weak correlation with BF% (r=–0.322, P<0.0001). Optimal body composition and CRF can be attributed to the regular structured physical activity of one hour duration daily and the provision of adequate nutrition. FFM can be put forth as a stronger determinant of CRF than BF% in the adolescents.
ABSTRACT
Bacteria, beside other microorganisms are mainly responsible for human sufferings beside their beneficial effects. After discovery of Penicillin bacterial diseases were controlled to a much extent. The name ‘antibiotic’ makes us feel that we, humans are superior at least from microorganisms. Serious infections caused by bacteria that have become resistant to commonly used antibiotics have become a major global healthcare problem in the 21st century. Resistance to antibiotics shows that they can fight back and challenge our knowledge and intellect. Discovery of New Delhi metallo-1 make us feel that this is the result of our own ignorance. Indiscriminate, irrational and illogical use of antibiotics is helping bacteria to fight against us. What objections are being raised at the Govt. level, and how research community defends us, keeping that apart, the question is to realize and resolve the threat rather than to overlook it. Our outlook need to be changed and health policies and guidelines need to be reevaluated and overhauled timely.