Gender-and age-related differences in anthropometric and body composition parameters in Nigerians, Zaria, Nigeria

BACKGROUND: Body composition refers to the constituent of the body, namely, lean mass, fat mass, and water. It serves as a great diagnostic value and a sensitive indicator of an individual's health and nutritional status. AIM: The aim of the study is to determine the age-related difference in anthropometric and body composition parameters in indigenes of Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 1200 participants, 578 males and 622 females, between ages of 7–60 years were selected randomly to participate in the study. The participants were divided into three age groups based on their ages; children (7–12 years), adolescents (13–17 years), and adults (18–60 years). Weight, height, body mass index, waist circumference, hip circumference, abdominal circumference, upper arm circumference, % body fat, triceps and iliac skinfold thicknesses were measured in all participants. RESULTS: All the anthropometric parameters measured increased significantly across the three age groups and in both males and females across the three age groups. Some of the anthropometric parameters showed significant difference in both sexes in the children, adolescents and adults age group. Percentage body fat also increases across the three age groups and in both sexes in each age group. All the parameters were significantly higher in the females than in the males. CONCLUSION: Age and gender brings about significant differences in anthropometric and body composition parameters in individuals.