Epidemiology Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Epidemiology, including details on twin studies, statistics, environmental and genetic factors.

Obesity and functional decline: epidemiology and geriatric consequences.

Jensen GL

Vanderbilt Center for Human Nutrition, 514 Medical Arts Building, Nashville, TN 37212, USA.

Obesity is growing in prevalence among older Americans and is accompanied by an unfortunate burden of chronic disease, functional decline, and poor quality of life. Elevated past or current body mass index (BMI) is strongly associated with increased self-reported functional limitations. Supportive findings have also related decreased physical performance test scores with elevated BMI. Body composition analyses have explored which body compartment is most strongly associated with obesity-related functional impairments. Studies have suggested possible contributions of decreased muscle mass and increased fat mass. Weight reduction intervention studies that have examined functional outcomes among older persons are limited.

Published 26 September 2005 in Clin Geriatr Med, 21(4): 677-87, v.
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