Correlation and comparison between different measurement sites of waist circumference and cardiovascular risk in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background: waist circumference (WC) is a component of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and an excellent marker for the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in children. This study aimed to provide information on the anatomical measurement sites of WC and their comparative correlation with MetS and its components in children. Methods: the literature search included papers published between January 2005 and September 2023 that met the following criteria: pediatric patients (2-18 years), WC measurement at different anatomical sites (≥ 2), and CVD risk by MetS. The quality of each study was determined using the STROBE and modified GRADE scales. The meta-analysis evaluated the WCiliac-crest and WCmiddle. Results: five observational studies (total population: 1,224) were included. WC was measured at 2-4 anatomical sites. In all studies, the correlations between different WC measurement sites and CVD risk were similar. The STROBE assessment ranged from 12-20/22 and the GRADE was A for all the articles. The meta-analysis showed that the heterogeneity (I2 test) of the WCiliac-crest and WCmiddle with CVD variables was substantial. Conclusion: All WC measurement sites showed adequate correlation with CVD risk, with some small individual differences. WCnarrow and WCumbilucus have adequate consistency and could be excellent alternatives in daily clinical practice because of their ease of measurement. Further studies are needed to evaluate the correlation between different WC measurement sites and CVD risk in children stratified according to pubertal stage and sex.