The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Waist and Hip Circumference and Selected Indicators Related to It Among Adolescents From the Kraków (Poland) Population.

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess changes in waist and hip circumference, as well as the waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) indices among adolescents (11-15-year-olds) from the Kraków during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods: Cross-sectional studies were conducted in four main districts of the city in the years 2020 and 2022. The study group consisted of 1662 people. Measurements of height, waist circumference, and hip circumference were taken. The collected data were used to calculate the WHR and WHtR indices. Statistical analyses were performed using two-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey's test, as well as the Kruskal-Wallis test, depending on the normality of distribution.

Results: An increase in hip circumference was observed in most age groups of both sexes. Among 14-15-year-old boys, an increase in waist circumference was observed, while among girls, the majority of cohorts showed the opposite trend. Additionally, in most age groups, a decrease in the values of WHR and WHtR indices was observed in both sexes, except for boys aged 14-15.

Conclusion: The study found that government-imposed restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on waist circumference, hip circumference, WHR, and WHtR indicators among adolescents aged 11-15 from Kraków. While some results showed regression, suggesting potential factors such as reduced physical activity or increased screen time contributing to deteriorating outcomes. On the other hand, not all results changed, which may be attributed to the absence of modifications in dietary habits or physical activity as government restrictions ceased.