Using digital anthropometric measurements to estimate body composition

Abstract

Accurate measurements of body composition (Fat and Fat-Free Mass) are critically important in the clinical and sport-performance settings. In clinical settings, it is important that allied-health professionals can measure body composition to determine potential risk of obesity-related health complications, as well as to track progress during pharmacological, dietary, or physical activity programs aimed at fat loss. In sport-performance settings, athletes must measure and track improvements in Fat-Free Mass as it is related to strength and power. However, traditional body composition assessment techniques are expensive, not portable, and require a great deal of technical expertise to administer. However, recently anthropometric measurements of body size and shape have been used to estimate body composition, overcoming many of the barriers experienced with other techniques. The methods and systems described in this invention measure the anatomical dimensions of an individual from a single two-dimensional (2D) digital image. The digital image is taken from the front/anterior view using a mobile, handheld communication device. The linear measurements are used to estimate the body volume of the individual, from which total body density can be calculated from the estimated body volume and body weight. Body composition (Fat Mass and Fat-Free Mass) of the individual is derived from density using known mathematical conversion formulas.