HIGH BODY FAT PERCENTAGE AMONG ADULT WOMEN IN MALAYSIA: THE ROLE OF LIFESTYLE

Body fat percentage is regarded as an important measurement for diagnosis of obesity. The aim of this study is to determine the association of high body fat percentage (BF%) and lifestyle among adult women. The study was conducted on 327 women, aged 40-59 years, recruited during a health screening program. Data on socio-demography, dietary intake and physical activity were collected through validated questionnaires. BF% was measured using InBody 270 Body Impedance analyzer machine. Association between lifestyle factors and body fat percentage were investigated using multiple linear regression, adjusted for age and body mass index (BMI). Intake of protein, calcium and physical activity on household intensity were the predictors of high BF%. Keywords : body fat; obesity; women; Malaysia; lifestyle.