Estimation of body fat mass using the CUN-BAE index and mortality risk by sex in the Asturias Study cohort

• Published in: Endocrinología, diabetes y nutrición. diabetes y nutrición., 2019-10, Vol.66 (8), p.487-494
• Main Authors: Ares Blanco, Jessica, Valdés Hernández, Sergio, Botas Cervero, Patricia, Sánchez-Ragnarsson, Cecilia, Pujante Alarcón, Pedro, Menéndez-Torre, Edelmiro, Delgado Álvarez, Elías
• Format: Article
• Language: eng ; spa
• ISSN: 2530-0180
• DOI: 10.1016/j.endinu.2019.02.008

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVESIn epidemiological studies, excess body fat (BF) has been associated with cardiometabolic risk factors, some types of cancer, and other causes of death. A new anthropometric method has been defined: The CUN-BAE index (University of Navarra Clinic-Body Fat Estimator), which is based on BMI, sex, and age. BMI and CUN-BAE index were used to assess their contribution to mortality risk from any cause in the Asturias Study cohort. MATERIAL AND METHODSThe Asturias study is a cohort study including 1.034 individuals aged 30-75years who participated in the first study phase (1998-1999). The study included a clinical survey, physical examination, and an oral glucose tolerance test. Vital status was determined in the cohort after 18years of follow-up. RESULTSTwo hundred and four subjects died: 93 females and 111 males (16.6% and 23.5% respectively men). Baseline values of both BMI and %BF suggesting obesity (BMI>30kg/m2 and CUN-BAE >25% in males and >35% in females) were found in most subjects. After adjusting for T2DM, HBP, CVD, and tobacco, the risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality was significantly higher as CUN-BAE increased, especially in females. CONCLUSIONSThe CUN-BAE equation is a useful tool, especially in females, to detect those who will have a greater risk of mortality, regardless of cardiovascular risk factors.