Body Roundness Index, A Body Shape Index, Conicity Index as Alternate Non-Traditional Anthropometric Tools to Identify Overweight and Obesity in Children Between 6–18 Years of Age – A Cross-Sectional Observational Study

Abstract

Background:The rising prevalence of childhood obesity poses a significant global public health challenge, necessitating early identification strategies for prevention and management. While Body Mass Index (BMI) remains the traditional screening tool, it has limitations in accounting for fat distribution. Non-traditional anthropometric indices such as Body Roundness Index (BRI), A Body Shape Index (ABSI), and Conicity Index have emerged as alternative markers to better assess central adiposity and related metabolic risks.

Objectives:To evaluate the effectiveness of non-traditional anthropometric indices (BRI, ABSI, and Conicity Index) in identifying overweight and obesity among children aged 6–18 years.

To compare their utility with conventional measures such as Body Mass Index (BMI) and Waist Circumference (WC).

Methods:A cross-sectional observational study was conducted over six months in the pediatric outpatient department at Shri Sathya Sai Medical College and Research Institute, Ammapettai. A total of 113 children aged between 6–18 years were enrolled after sample size calculation. Anthropometric parameters including weight, height, and waist circumference were measured. BRI, ABSI, and Conicity Index were calculated using validated formulas. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 17, and correlation with BMI and WC was assessed along with sensitivity, specificity, and predictive accuracy.

Results:The study observed strong positive correlations between BRI and BMI, and between Conicity Index and WC, suggesting their potential as effective alternate screening tools. ABSI showed moderate correlation. BRI demonstrated higher sensitivity and specificity compared to ABSI and Conicity Index for detecting overweight and obesity. Incorporating non-traditional indices enhanced risk stratification beyond conventional anthropometry.

Conclusion:Non-traditional anthropometric indices such as BRI and Conicity Index offer valuable supplementary tools alongside BMI for early identification of overweight and obesity among children. Routine use of these indices can improve the precision of obesity risk screening in pediatric practice.