A Cross-Sectional Study on School Children Obesity

Since skinfold thickness measurement was considered the most valid method for obesity screening, it was performed at primary schools in Shizuoka Prefecture during 4 years (1968-1971) The results are summarized as follows : (1) Almost similar values were obtained with calipers of different types as Eiken-and Keys-type. (2) Skinfold thickness values became larger with age, and girls>boys was observed in every age. (3) Through comparison with 3 sites (upper arm, back and abdomen) measured, upper arm>abdomen>back was observed in almost all children except lower school grade boys. It seems more desirable for obesity screening to measure upper arm and abdomen. (4) Skinfolds of urban school children were thicker than of rural school children. (5) The correlations between skinfold thickness and several physique indices and IRSW were examined and risks of misjudgement with applying these methods were pointed out. Especially in case of Rohrer Index, the risk was biggest. (6) 3-6% of children were judged as slight obesity and 2-4, % as obesity. (7) A new index, which was expressed by skinfold thickness×IRSW, was proposed. This index named Mori Index, was considered well worth applying to obese children screening.