Anthropometric parameters in relation to glycaemic status and lipid profile in a multi-ethnic sample in Italy

Abstract

AbstractObjectiveTo examine the health status of ethnic minorities in Italy. Furthermore, we aimed to assess the association between anthropometric and blood parameters connected with health status.DesignA cross-sectional study. Anthropometric data were collected by direct measurements and blood glucose, total cholesterol and TAG were analysed.SettingBologna, northern Italy.SubjectsA multi-ethnic sample of adult immigrants and Roma.ResultsSignificant correlations between anthropometric and blood parameters were found. Among the ethnic groups, Roma males had the highest values of glucose, total cholesterol and TAG. In the females the situation was more balanced among ethnic groups.ConclusionsThe data from this survey indicate that poor health status is a very common problem among ethnic groups living in Italy, especially the Roma. The use of anthropometric parameters as rapid indicators of health status in screenings of a large number of subjects could be an effective and cheap method to provide preliminary indications on individuals or ethnic groups at greater risk of poor health.