Evaluating the Impact of BMI, Arm and Chest Circumference on Cardiovascular and Glycemic Parameters Among University Students

Abstract

Background: The increasing prevalence of cardiometabolic disorders among young adults demands early identification of at-risk individuals. While body mass index (BMI) is commonly used to assess obesity-related risks, regional anthropometric measures such as arm and chest circumference may provide additional insight into cardiovascular and glycemic health.
Objective: This study explored gender-specific associations between BMI, arm and chest circumference, and physiological parameters—blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), and fasting blood sugar (FBS)—in university students in Pakistan.
Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 170 students (aged 18–28 years) using standardized anthropometric and physiological measurements. Data were analyzed using t-tests, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation.
Results: Males had significantly higher BMI, BP, HR, and FBS compared to females. BMI positively correlated with systolic BP (r = 0.406), diastolic BP (r = 0.334), and FBS (r = 0.251). Interestingly, 70% of individuals with elevated FBS were female, despite lower mean BMI. Arm and chest circumference showed positive associations with BP and BMI. HR correlated positively with FBS (r = 0.278), suggesting early autonomic involvement in glycemic regulation.
Conclusion: Gender-specific trends were evident, with males demonstrating higher absolute cardiometabolic risk markers, while females showed disproportionate glycemic abnormalities despite lower BMI. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating regional anthropometric assessments alongside traditional measures to enhance early risk stratification.
Implications: Targeted interventions should not be limited to visibly overweight individuals, especially among females, who may harbor latent glycemic risks.