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VIII. ABOUT RESULTS
Muscle-Fat Analysis
The length of the black bar indicates the interpretation of the subject's values in comparison with
the reference population. If the length of the line falls within the colored area, the subject's values
are within normal range. If the length of the line falls to the left or right, then values are below and
above normal range.
Weight
Normal range for weight is calculated using Body Mass Index (BMI) standards.
NOTE: for subjects under the age of 18, standard adult BMI may not be as applicable, as children
have varying ranges and body shapes in growth. Physicians are recommended to consult
height-corrected BMI standards for children.
Skeletal Muscle Mass (SMM)
Cardiac muscle, smooth muscle, and skeletal muscle are the three major muscle types found in
the body. Skeletal muscle mass correlates with athletic performance, as it is under voluntary
control and used to power movement. In addition, it can be developed actively through proper
nutrition and training, thus making this value an important indicator for evaluation of rehabilitation
progress. As there currently are no universal cut-off points for skeletal muscle mass, this value is
recommended for usage primarily in tracking change over a period of time.
Body Fat Mass (BFM)
This section places the subject's body fat mass value in comparison with normal range. Body fat
can be divided into subcutaneous fat (under the skin) and visceral fat (surrounding the organs).
An essential level of fat is required for the body to function, though excessive fat can result in
obesity-related diseases.
Body Mass Index (BMI)
BMI is a commonly used index by the World Health Organization (WHO), utilizing height and
weight to classify underweight, normal, over, and obesity in adults. The definition of "normal
range" differs according to gender, age, and ethnicity, as different populations may have different
associations between BMI and health risks. Notably, the proportion of Asian populations with risk
factors for Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease is substantial even below the WHO
international BMI cut-off point of 24.910. Accordingly, there are multiple BMI normal range
settings available on the MA801 (WHO: 18.5-24.9, Asia: 18-23, Taiwan: 18-24, China: 18-23.9)
that can be selected in the System Settings.
NOTE: BMI is calculated purely based on height and weight, and does not distinguish between
muscle and fat. As such, it can be potentially misleading, particularly for individuals with
higher levels of muscle mass.
Percent Body Fat (PBF)
Body fat percentage is useful in determining the specific cause of weight loss or gain. Average
percentages differ according to specified groups and categories, most significantly by gender.
Although no universally accepted published ranges or cut-off points for body fat percentage
currently exist, it is still an important value in assessing change in body composition and health.
10. Appropriate body-mass index for Asian populations and its implications for policy and intervention
strategies. The Lancet, Public Health, Vol. 363, Issue 9403, p.157-163, 2004
Body Mass Index
Percent Body Fat
Waist-Hip Ratio
BM I
PBF
WHR
Obesity Analysis
(kg/m )
(%)
2
10.0
14.2
18.5
21.7
24.9
34.9
45.0
55.0
21.5
2.0
6.0
10.0
15.0
20.0
33.3
46.7
60.0
17.6
0.65
0.72
0.80
0.85
0.90
1.00
1.10
1.20
0.84