Mapping Body Composition and Metabolic Risk Patterns Among Late Adolescents and Young Adults Using BIA

Abstract

Background: Lifestyle behaviours during late adolescence and young adulthood significantly influence body composition and future metabolic health. This study evaluates lifestyle, body composition and metabolic risk indicators in late adolescents and examines the influence of age and gender. Methods: A total of 138 participants aged 18 to 25 years were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Lifestyle data along with a structured questionnaire and body composition, were assessed. Statistical analyses included the chi-square test, considered statistically significant (p < 0.05). Results: Among participants, 74.6% were females and 63.0% were aged 18- 21 years. Non-vegetarian dietary habits were predominant (62.3%) and lack of time was the major barrier to physical activity (50.0%). Most participants consumed 6-8 glasses of water daily (42.0%), while 88.4% reported sleeping less than 6 hours per night. Body composition assessment revealed high body fat mass in 61.6% of participants, with 64.5% having normal BMI and 18.1% having elevated BMI. Significant gender differences were observed in total body water (χ²=52.01, p<0.05), waist-to-hip ratio (χ²=7.51, p<0.05), body score (t=2.13, p<0.05) and body composition-related health conditions (χ²=5.58, p<0.05). Females showed higher body fat mass, obesity grade, and waist-to-hip ratio, whereas males had higher total body water, basal metabolic rate, and body scores. Age was significantly associated with BMI distribution (χ² = 7.94, p < 0.05). Conclusion: Body composition varied significantly by age and gender among young adults. This highlights the importance of early screening and lifestyle interventions. BIA may be useful for identifying individuals at risk of future metabolic disorders.