A Body Shape Index (ABSI) Calculator

The A Body Shape Index (ABSI) is an advanced metric that goes beyond traditional BMI measurements to assess health risks. It considers waist circumference in relation to BMI and height, providing a more comprehensive evaluation of body shape and associated mortality risks.

What is ABSI?

ABSI is a measurement that:

• Evaluates body shape and fat distribution
• Considers waist circumference in relation to height and weight
• Provides better mortality risk assessment than BMI alone
• Helps identify health risks associated with central obesity

Why Use ABSI Instead of BMI?

ABSI offers several advantages over traditional BMI:

• Accounts for fat distribution patterns
• Better predictor of premature mortality
• More accurate for people with different body types
• Considers abdominal fat, a key health risk indicator

Understanding Your Results

The calculator provides:

1. ABSI Score: Your calculated A Body Shape Index
2. ABSI z-score: Your score compared to population averages
3. Mortality Risk Category: Based on your z-score:
   • Very Low: z-score < -0.868
   • Low: -0.868 to -0.272
   • Average: -0.272 to +0.229
   • High: +0.229 to 0.798
   • Very High: > 0.798

How to Measure

For accurate results:

1. Waist Circumference: Measure horizontally at navel level
2. Height: Measure without shoes
3. Weight: Measure in light clothing

Health Implications

ABSI can indicate risks for:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Type 2 diabetes
• Certain cancers
• Overall mortality risk

Limitations

Consider that ABSI:

• Doesn’t account for muscle mass
• May not apply to all ethnic groups equally
• Should be used alongside other health assessments
• Is not a diagnostic tool

References

1. Krakauer NY, Krakauer JC. A new body shape index predicts mortality hazard independently of body mass index. PLoS ONE. 2012.
2. Bertoli S, et al. ABSI (A Body Shape Index) and ARI (Anthropometric Risk Indicator) in evaluation of health risks. Journal of Nutritional Science. 2016.