Measurement of Obesity as Indicated by Body Mass Index Using Waist-Hip Ratio among Apparently Healthy Students in University of Maiduguri, Nigeria

Abstract Background: Body Mass Index (BMI) which is often calculated by dividing the weight (kg) by height squared (m 2 ), was chosen as a simple measurement of body weight in relation to height. Waist circumference (WC) and Waist-hip-ratio (WHR) are important indices to assess abdominal obesity. Waist circumference (WC) is an expedient and easy measurement of intra-abdominal fat mass and total body bulk. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 130 undergraduate students of University of Maiduguri (comprising of 65 male students and 65 female students), with their ages ranging from 18-30 years. A written or verbal consent was obtained from the subjects after explaining to them the objectives as well as the methodology of the study.  Information about age and socioeconomic status was collected from each student in a pre-designed questionnaire. The height, weight, waist circumference, hip circumference were also taken on each individual using standard anthropometric methodology. Results: The prevalence of abdominal obesity in the present study, according to waist circumference (WC), and waist-hip-ratio (WHR) was 24.6% and 67.7% in males respectively, while 66.2% and 92.3% in female students respectively. Conclusion: The females in the same age group as males showed a tendency towards higher BMI and were classified as overweight and this could be attributed to reduced physical exercise and diet compared to their male counterparts. Keywords: body mass index, hip circumference, obesity, waist circumference, waist-hip ratio