Anthropometry and physical activity level in the prediction of metabolic syndrome in children.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the effectiveness of anthropometric measures and physical activity level in the prediction of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in children.


METHODS
Cross-sectional study with children from public and private schools. Children underwent an anthropometric assessment, blood pressure measurement and biochemical evaluation of serum for determination of TAG, HDL-cholesterol and glucose. Physical activity level was calculated and number of steps per day obtained using a pedometer for seven consecutive days.


METHODS
Viçosa, south-eastern Brazil.


METHODS
Boys and girls (n 187), mean age 9·90 (SD 0·7) years.


RESULTS
Conicity index, sum of four skinfolds, physical activity level and number of steps per day were accurate in predicting MetS in boys. Anthropometric indicators were accurate in predicting MetS for girls, specifically BMI, waist circumference measured at the narrowest point and at the level of the umbilicus, four skinfold thickness measures evaluated separately, the sum of subscapular and triceps skinfold thickness, the sum of four skinfolds and body fat percentage.


CONCLUSIONS
The sum of four skinfolds was the most accurate method in predicting MetS in both genders.
1Nutrition and Health Department,Viçosa Federal University,DNS - Prédio CCBII,Sexto andar,Lab. 47 - Campus UFV,Viçosa,MG, 36570-000Brazil.
Alynne Christian Ribeiro
AC
Andaki
1Nutrition and Health Department,Viçosa Federal University,DNS - Prédio CCBII,Sexto andar,Lab. 47 - Campus UFV,Viçosa,MG, 36570-000Brazil.
Adelson Luiz Araújo
AL
Tinôco
2Sport Science Department,Triângulo Mineiro Federal University,Uberaba,MG,Brazil.
Edmar Lacerda
EL
Mendes
3Physical Education Department,Viçosa Federal University,Viçosa,MG,Brazil.
Roberto
R
Andaki Júnior
4Mater Mother's Hospital,Mater Medical Research Institute and Griffith Health Institute,Griffith University,Brisbane,Australia.
Andrew P
AP
Hills
5Physical Education Department,Viçosa Federal University,Viçosa,MG,Brazil.
Paulo Roberto S
PR
Amorim
D056044:Actigraphy; D050154:Adiposity; D015992:Body Mass Index; D001938:Brazil / Q000453:epidemiology; D002648:Child; D002664:Child Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D024821:Metabolic Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology; D009043:Motor Activity; D050177:Overweight / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology; D063766:Pediatric Obesity / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D015995:Prevalence; D012307:Risk Factors; D012574:Schools; D012737:Sex Factors; D012885:Skinfold Thickness; D014504:Urban Health; D055105:Waist Circumference