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Comparison of anthropometric measurements of cardiovascular risk, isometric strength and functionality among Chilean adolescents of both gender with intellectual disabilities

Abstract:

Adolescents with intellectual disabilities have high rates of adiposity, low levels of strength and less functional capacity when compared to people without disabilities. The objective of the present study was to compare the differences in anthropometric measurements of cardiovascular risk, isometric strength and functional capacity among adolescents with moderate intellectual disability of both sexes. The sample was made up of 39 adolescents, 21 men and 18 women, belonging to special educational centers in the Metropolitan Region, Santiago of Chile. Anthropometric measurements were considered: weight, height, body mass index, waist circumference, waist-height ratio; isometric strength measurements: absolute and relative trunk extensor and hand grip strength; and functional tests: counter-movement jump, agility test 4x10 mts., timed up and go and, 5 times sit to stand test. For statistical analysis, the Student's T test was used for independent samples. Significant differences (p <0.05) were obtained between men and women in anthropometric measurements: height and waist-height ratio; isometric strength measurements: hand grip and trunk extensor strength, absolute and relative; and functional tests related to countermovement jumping and timed up and go. There are differences in favor of men in different health markers related to anthropometric variables, isometric strength and functional capacity among Chilean school female and male adolescents with moderate intellectual disability; results that could affect the well-being, autonomy, and quality of life of people with intellectual disabilities in school and work contexts.