norm of women two anthropometric indices in Isfahan

ABSTRACT

Two simple anthropometric indices are Waist Circumference [WC] and Waist to Hip Ratio [WHR] for estimating body fat distribution. Especially in recent years these methods are emphasized compared to other methods, because they are cheap, easy to use at home or health centers, easy to calculate and high measurement accuracy. The present research is conducted to determine the norm of women WC and WHR, since there is no estimation and figure in regard with indices in women reproductive ages of Isfahan. This is a descriptive study, in which data collecting is cross-sectional. The samples are 740 people in Isfahan.They were selected by clustering sampling and invited to 10 health centers in this city. In this research the evaluation instruments are questionnaire and standard meter tape. Collected data were analyzed by SPSS software and descriptive statistical methods. Results indicated that the mean, median and standard deviation of women [19 to 53 years] WC were X=84.62, median=84 and SD=10.32, respectively, the minimum and maximum of women WC were 60 and 126 cm, respectively. Also the mean, median and standard deviation of women WHR were X=0.82, median = 0.82 and SD=5.91, respectively. The minimum and maximum of women WHR were 0.63 and 0.99, respectively. Therefore, the norm of women WC index in Isfahan is 84 cm and the norm of their WHR is 0.82. Comparing the determined norm of women WC and WHR indices in Isfahan to the determined norms in other countries, it shows genetic, racial, geographical and environmental [physical activities and diet] differences. Women are encouraged to take exercises and be more active. Also, we recommend them to improve meal patterns and their diet