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This study examined the sensitivity and specificity of current methods for classifying morbid obesity in females. Results suggest that current methods for classifying morbid obesity (greater than or equal to 45.5 kg over ideal weight or BMI greater than or equal to 45) do not provide acceptable specificity and sensitivity, respectively. We suggest that additional measurements such as total body fatness determined by hydrodensitometry be used to classify morbid obesity and determine eligibility for aggressive therapeutic interventions for weight loss.

This study compared two methods of hydrostatic weighing without head submersion to conventional hydrostatic weighting in morbidly obese females. We concluded that hydrostatic weighing without head submersion is a valid alternative to conventional hydrostatic weighing especially when subjects are apprehensive in the water. The use of anthropometric head measures (HWNS-A) did not significantly improve the accuracy of the body composition assessment; therefore, elimination of these time consuming measurements in favor of the direct correction of head above Db is recommended.

This study compared criteria used to determine attainment of maximal ETT used with normal subjects to results shown by obese subjects. Results indicated that obese subjects do not show the values that normal subjects show for plateau in oxygen consumption, respiratory exchange ratio, predicted maximal heart rate, or perceived exertion. Generally, less than 60% of the obese subjects met criteria for maximal ETT. These findings suggest that alternate criteria and/or alternate testing are needed to ascertain that ETT was maximal. Suggestions include longer treadmill stage times and the use of blood lactate.