Body Mass Index and Waist-Hip Ratio Profile Of Adolescents in Kerala, India: Implications For Emerging Cardiometabolic Risk

Abstract

Introduction: Cardiometabolic risk has emerged as a global health crisis, affecting individuals of all ages, particularly adolescents. The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies obesity as a major risk factor for chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. With the alarming rise in adolescent obesity rates, this study aims to assess the anthropometric profile of adolescents and determine the prevalence of underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity among adolescents in Kerala, India. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted, sampling 1,240 adolescents aged 17 to 19 years from six randomly selected educational institutions in the northern three districts of Kerala, India. Anthropometric data, including height, weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), waist circumference, and waist-hip ratio, were collected and analysed statistically. Results: Of the 1240 participants, 73.8% were 19 years old and 309 (24.9%) were 18 years.  47.8% were male, and 52.1% were female, with one transgender participant. The BMI analysis revealed that 44.8% were underweight, 53.2% had a healthy BMI, and only 1.9% were overweight, with no cases of obesity, whereas 366 (29.5%) of them substantially increased waist-hip ratio by ≥0.90 cm (Men) ≥0.85 cm (Women). Conclusion: This study highlights the relatively low prevalence of overweight adolescents in Kerala, contrasting with global trends, but points to the potential for future increases due to lifestyle changes. But, one third of the adolescent’s population pose risk under central obesity, which is a major implication for cardiometabolic risk. These findings provide critical data to inform public health interventions and policies aimed at early prevention and management of central obesity among adolescents, promoting long-term health and well-being.