ERIC Number: EJ867663
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2009-Apr
Pages: 5
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0730-3084
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Practical Applications and Limitations of Tracking Body Mass Index in Schools
Adams, Jessica B.; Adams, Jaime B.
Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance (JOPERD), v80 n4 p14-17, 54 Apr 2009
The fact that today's children are projected to be the first generation in centuries to live sicker and shorter lives than their parents, due to the obesity epidemic, makes it imperative to identify early warning signs in children who may need a more comprehensive health evaluation. The CDC has been tracking the progress of the nation with regard to health status by using the body mass index (BMI) risk stratification system. Given the current health status of the United States, it is only sensible for schools to screen for weight-related health risk. Body mass index is a simple and cost-effective screening tool for people of all ages. It is calculated by applying a mathematical formula that uses a person's height and weight. Age and gender adjustments are also considered when assessing weight-related health risks in children. The purpose of this article is to demonstrate how health and physical educators can easily chart BMI for each student from year to year. Provided that privacy and confidentiality practices are adhered to, minimally-invasive assessments are used, and the community is educated about the benefits and limitations of screening, this should be a welcome addition to physical education programming. (Contains 2 tables and 2 figures.)
Descriptors: Physical Education, Obesity, Body Composition, Child Health, Confidentiality, Evaluation Methods, Measurement Techniques, Physical Health, At Risk Persons, Screening Tests, School Role, Public Health
American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. 1900 Association Drive, Reston, VA 20191. Tel: 800-213-7193; Fax: 703-476-9527; e-mail: info@aahperd.org; Web site: http://www.aahperd.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A