Changes in anthropometry, adiposity, and inflammation in Black and White women engaged in intentional weight loss.

Objective: We examined associations among changes in anthropometry, regional adiposity, and inflammatory markers in Black and White women participating in intentional weight loss.

Methods: A total of 104 women with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m² self-selected bariatric surgery (n = 66) or a diet and exercise program (n = 38). Anthropometric, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry-quantified regional adiposity, and inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein [CRP], tumor necrosis factor α [TNF-α], soluble TNF receptor I [sTNFRI], sTNFRII, interleukin [IL]-6, and soluble IL-1 receptor antagonist) were measured at baseline and 6 months.

Results: Weight, BMI, visceral adipose tissue, and regional (android and gynoid) adiposity declined in the bariatric surgery group. Among bariatric surgery participants, Black women experienced declines of lesser magnitude in terms of weight and BMI than White women, but changes in regional adiposity and visceral adipose tissue did not differ. In the bariatric surgery group, decreases in weight and BMI were associated with decreases in CRP and IL-6 among White women, but not Black women. Decreases in weight, BMI, and android fat were associated with increases in TNF-α, sTNFRI, and sTNFRII among Black women, but not White women.

Conclusions: Decreases in anthropometry and adiposity were observed among Black and White bariatric surgery participants; however, associations among changes in adiposity, anthropometry, and inflammation differed by race.