Neck Circumference as A Screening Tool to Predict Obesity: A Cross Sectional Study in Coastal Karnataka, India

ABSTRACT

Background: BMI is commonly used to classify obesity in adults. WC and WHR are considered as ac-ceptable measures of obesity. However in community settings these can be a time-consuming method. Instead, Neck circumference (NC) can be used to screen for obesity. Methodology: A cross sectional study among 310 study participants in rural field practice area of Karwar Medical College. Data was collected using pre designed semi structured questionnaire and an-thropometric measurements as per standard guidelines. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to assess correlation. NC cut off values were obtained from ROC. Results: In our study, the correlation of NC with BMI was highly correlated among both males(r=0.529), and females (r=0.565). Kappa statistics depicted moderate agreement with BMI males (κ = 0.512); fe-males (κ = 0.496) and NC. The cut-off values obtained for NC using ROC curve for males (35.5cm) and females (31.5cm) were statically significant associated in comparison to BMI to determine obesity in both males (χ2 = 58.57, and females (χ2 = 21.54). Conclusion: This study concluded that men with NC ≥ 35.5 cm and females with NC ≥ 31.5 cm are to be considered obese.