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A recent study published in JAMA Network Open has revealed important insights into the relationship between body shape and mortality risk using a newer anthropometric measure called the Body Roundness Index (BRI). This study on the Body Roundness Index and mortality risk provides crucial data for public health.

Key Findings

  • Mean BRI among US adults increased from 4.80 to 5.62 between 1999 and 2018, with a biennial change of 0.95%[1].
  • The association between BRI and all-cause mortality followed a U-shaped curve[1].
  • Compared to the middle BRI range (4.5-5.5):
    • Adults with BRI ≥6.9 had a 49% higher risk of all-cause mortality[1]. Healthcare providers should consider the data on the Body Roundness Index and mortality risk.

What is BRI?

Compared to traditional measures like BMI, BRI is calculated using waist circumference and height to reflect visceral fat distribution better. It is based on modelling the human body as an ellipse[1]. Understanding the Body Roundness Index and mortality risk can help better assess health outcomes.

Implications

This study proves that BRI may be a promising tool for assessing mortality risk related to body shape and fat distribution. The U-shaped relationship suggests that very low and high BRI values are associated with increased mortality risk[1]. It underscores how the Body Roundness Index and mortality risk are interlinked.

The increasing trend in BRI over the past two decades parallels rising obesity rates in the US. This trend was most pronounced among women, adults over 65, and Mexican American individuals[1].

Limitations

The study only examined all-cause mortality, and BRI ranges were derived from a US population, potentially limiting generalizability to other groups[1].

Conclusion

While further validation is needed, this research suggests BRI could become a valuable, non-invasive screening tool for estimating mortality risk based on body shape. As obesity continues to be a significant public health concern, measures like BRI may help clinicians better assess and address risks associated with body composition.

This study highlights the complex relationship between body shape and health outcomes, reinforcing the importance of maintaining a healthy body composition for overall well-being and longevity.

Sources

[1] 2819558 JAMA Network Open Article
[2] Body Roundness Index and All-Cause Mortality Among US Adults JAMA Network Open Article

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