Reference values of body composition parameters for Vietnamese men and women

Background Body composition parameters are linked to cardio-metabolic risk. However, high-quality reference values of body composition are scarce, particularly in Asian population. The aim of study was to construct sex- and age-specific normative reference values of body composition for the Vietnamese population. Methods This study was designed as a cross-sectional investigation that involved 2700 women and 1459 men aged between 20 and 90 (average 48, SD 15) who were participants in the population-based Vietnam Osteoporosis Study. Whole-body composition parameters (e.g., fat mass and lean mass) and site-specific (head, arms, trunk, and legs) parameters were measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (Hologic Horizon). Reference curves for each parameter and anatomical site were constructed using the Generalized Additive Model for Location Scale and Shape modeling technique. Results Overall, 8% of women and 11% of men were classified as obese (body mass index >= 27.5 kg/m(2)). Most fat mass was deposited at the trunk (similar to 50%), followed by the leg (similar to 33%). Women had similar to 10% more body fat (relative to body weight) than men. However, whole-body lean mass was higher in men than women, with the average difference being similar to 13 kg. Moreover, men had more bone mineral content than women (2110 vs. 1600 g). We also provided a comparison of age-related changes in body composition parameters between Vietnamese and US Whites. Conclusion These data provide gender- and age-specific reference values of body composition parameters for Vietnamese population. These normative values provide health professionals and the public with a resource for interpretation of body composition data.

Automated summary

This study aimed to establish normative reference values of body composition for the Vietnamese population, with findings showing that women had more body fat while men had higher lean mass and bone mineral content. These reference values provide a valuable resource for interpreting body composition data for health professionals and the public.