Validity of self-reported height and weight and predictors of bias in adolescents

Elgar, F.J., Roberts, C., Tudor-Smith, C. and Moore, L. (2005) Validity of self-reported height and weight and predictors of bias in adolescents. Journal of Adolescent Health, 37(5), pp. 371-375. (doi: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2004.07.014)

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Publisher's URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jadohealth.2004.07.014

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the validity of self-reported height and weight, the accuracy of screening for overweight and obesity using these data, and the predictors of bias in self-reported height and weight in adolescents. Method: The Health Behavior in School-Aged Children (HBSC) survey was used to assess self-reported and measured height and weight in a community sample of 418 students in year 11 from 21 secondary schools in Wales. Participants also provided self-report data on dieting and body perception. Results: Self-reported and measured height and weight were highly correlated but a bias of underreporting of body weight by an average of .52 kg contributed to underestimation of the prevalence of overweight and obesity. Based on self-report data, 13.9% of the sample was identified as overweight and 2.8% was identified as obese, but measured data showed rates of 18.7% and 4.4%, respectively. Overweight and obese participants showed greater bias and variability in self-reported weight than normal/underweight participants. Body mass index (BMI) and body dissatisfaction predicted bias in self-reported weight. Conclusion: Self-report bias had significant consequences for the accuracy of a screen for overweight and obesity. Actual and perceived body size each contribute to underreporting body weight. Self-reports will remain an important health surveillance tool but should not be relied on exclusively to detect weight problems. Accuracy checks of self-report data may improve surveys of weight problems in young people.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Moore, Professor Laurence
Authors: Elgar, F.J., Roberts, C., Tudor-Smith, C., and Moore, L.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > MRC/CSO SPHSU
Journal Name:Journal of Adolescent Health
ISSN:1054139X
ISSN (Online):1879-1972

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