To quantify bias in self-reported height and weight in a specialist outpatient population, assess its impact on BMI-based obesity classification, and identify predictors of misreporting.
Key Findings:
Mean misreporting was +3.13 cm for height, -0.97 kg for weight, and -1.63 kg/m² for BMI.
20.0% of participants experienced WHO BMI-category misclassification, primarily due to under-classification (19.4%).
Sensitivity for detecting obesity based on self-report was 0.72, and specificity was 1.00.
Age predicted height over-reporting; age and measured BMI predicted weight under-reporting and BMI underestimation.
Interpretation:
Self-reported anthropometric data systematically underestimate BMI, leading to significant misclassification of obesity, which can adversely affect treatment access and management.
Limitations:
The study was conducted in a single outpatient clinic, which may limit generalizability.
Self-reported data may still carry inherent biases despite the study design aimed at minimizing them.
Potential biases in self-reporting remain a concern despite the study's design.
Conclusion:
Objective measurement of height and weight should be prioritized in clinical settings to ensure accurate obesity classification and appropriate management.
