Significant Predictors Of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease In Firefighters

Abstract

For Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) cadets, body composition is used as a predictor of fitness, qualification for enlistment, determination of load carriage, and duty fulfillment. However, the current method of measuring body composition in the United States military lacks validity and has left a gap that challenges researchers to investigate methods of measuring body composition deemed suitable for the military population. PURPOSE: To compare body composition methods, including the military's method of circumference-based measurements, to identify a suitable method for Bowling Green State University's Air Force ROTC program. METHODS: Anthropometric data (height and weight) and body composition measurements (air displacement plethysmography (ADP), bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), skinfolds, and circumferences) were collected on 24 participants (Male: n = 21; Female: n=3). A repeated measure analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare body composition measurement data. BMI and circumference results were displayed as a percentage of compliance according to the Air Force Instruction (AFI) guidelines. ADP was used as the "gold standard" of comparison for body composition. RESULTS: A significant difference between skinfolds and BIA occurred (p=0.025). According to BMI, seven cadets fell into the non-compliant category, while one cadet was non-compliant using the military's method of circumference-based measurements. The military's circumference-based method underestimated body fat compared the "gold standard" ADP, however these differences were not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: The findings from this investigation suggest that the military's circumference-based method can appropriately provide accurate body composition results amongst Air Force ROTC cadets. It is recommended that further research be conducted to continue to collect data on body composition methods that provide accurate results and are easy to implement for Air Force ROTC cadets.