Challenges in obtaining accurate anthropometric measures for adults with severe obesity: A community-based study

Abstract

Aims The number of people with severe obesity (BMI ⩾40 kg/m2) is increasing rapidly, but is poorly documented, partly as a result of inappropriate standard anthropometric measurement methods for community-based people. Methods As part of a broader study, people receiving care services and with severe obesity were visited at home. The people were assessed for measurements using different weighing scales and a standard portable stadiometer. If the stadiometer could not be used, their half arm span and knee height were measured to estimate their height using standard predictive equations. Results Measurements were taken for 15 women and 10 men ( n = 25) aged 40–87 years (mean 62 years). Weights ranged from 98.4 to 211.8 kg (mean 150 kg), with 16 participants requiring bariatric scales. For the six people who were unable to stand, we used wheelchair scales ( n = 1), bed weighing scales ( n = 2), routine weights from care home records ( n = 2) or weight data from hospital records ( n = 1). The standard portable stadiometer could only be used for one person; the others required alternative measures from which to estimate height. Large body habitus obscured bony landmarks, meaning alternative measures gave diverse heights. Fourteen participants had a ⩾8 cm difference in height between estimates from half arm span and knee height measurements. Conclusions Standard practice commonly does not provide reliable measurements for people with severe obesity, particularly those with mobility difficulties. An inability to measure weight and height accurately can exclude people from appropriate care, obscuring the true numbers affected and the effectiveness of future service planning. Safe community care requires the availability of specialist scales and standardised methods for height estimation appropriate for older and disabled people with severe obesity.

Overlooked and under‐evidenced: Community health and long‐term care service needs, utilization, and costs incurred by people with severe obesity

“…Participants were visited at home by the lead investigator, who obtained written informed consent for participation. Participants' height and weight were measured using specialist scales and alternative height measures if required 27 . The investigator then administered a ‘Help at Home’ questionnaire (see Supporting Information), gathering information on help needed at home.…”

“…Participants' height and weight were measured using specialist scales and alternative height measures if required. 27 The investigator then administered a 'Help at Home' questionnaire (see Supporting Information), gathering information on help needed at home. This was based on methods used by Health Survey England to assess formal and informal help needed with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living.…”

Tackling Obesity Through Bariatric Surgery: Long-Term Outcomes and Complication Rates

“…Recent studies underscore the sustainability of weight loss achieved through MBS, improvements in comorbidities, and the relative effectiveness of different surgical techniques. However, these benefits are not without associated risks, including potential weight regain, the need for reoperation, and an increased risk of substance use disorders and suicide (3)(4). Therefore, it is imperative for physicians to engage in a shared decision-making process with patients suffering from severe obesity, carefully weighing the long-term risks and benefits of MBS.…”