Morgan Jenkins B00736221
Anthropometry Report
Anthropometry is described as the measurement of the variations of physical dimensions and gross composition of the human body (Jelliffe, D.B.1966). and it is applied across many areas of science, measuring the physical differences that can be seen in our population. It involves measuring body length, width, skinfold thickness and weight. (Wang et al. 2000). From these measurements someone who is overweight or underweight can be highlighted by calculating BMI and waist to hip ratio.
The different types of equipment that were used when taking the anthropometric measurements were scales, tape measures and stadiometres. The tools are moderately simple, precise, portable and inexpensive, and the anthropometric examination is rapid and non-invasive. (Cameron,N & Bogin B. 2012). The low-cost instruments were calibrated properly so they easy to use, the measurements were recorded 3 times and then a mean was calculated and this helped the accuracy and precision of the result. Although there were strengths in this experiment anthropometric techniques are prone to errors that could arise, for example, from the inadequate training of personnel. (Sicotte M. 2010). In addition, different people in the group took the measurements of one person and this could lead to a different technique being used and slight errors made.
In Table 1 looking at the MUAC it is evident that a degree of human error has occurred, there is a large difference in the range of 39.9 between males and females. Overall males have a higher value in each area except for hip circumference, men (93.4) and women (96.6). This is because there are large differences in body composition in men and women, with women having more body fat. (Stephens, J. (2010). In Table 2 it is clear that a small difference in BMI (0.2) was found between males and females, with males slightly higher. However, BMI does not distinguish between mass due to body fat and mass due to muscular physique. It also does not take account of the distribution of fat. (Data.parliament.uk.2010). Both results of 22.7 (males) and 22.5(females) were found to be within the acceptable range according to Table 3 which shows the recommendations for BMI both male and female (WHO 2011).
I now recognise how simple it is to make an error when tak...
