Comparison of BMI and body fat determinations in rural Alaska women: results of the WIC Healthy Mom Survey, Summer 2001.

Objectives: Evaluate two field methods to assess body composition of rural Alaska women. Excess body fat has been correlated with chronic diseases.
Methods: This exploratory study used an orally administered survey of a self-selected sample from five rural Alaskan villages. Electrical impedance technique was used to determine percent of body fat. Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated based on clinically obtained height and weight and compared to historical data by geographical regions. Self-reported health data and fingerstick screenings were used to assess health status.
Results: The body mass index tool assessed more women at excessive weight than did the percent body fat assessment tool. Fingerstick screenings for glucose, cholesterol, and hemoglobin were generally found to be in normal ranges.
Conclusions: Percent of body fat may be more accurate to determine weight status for many Alaska Native women. Historical body mass indices may indicate periods of prolonged limited food supplies for a geographic region.