27:T42b,

It was envisaged to study the knowledge and practices of doctors regarding management of animal bites and rabies. By dividing Delhi into 5 geographic zones, a representative sample of doctors was selected from government hospitals, dispensaries, and private settings. Many gaps were seen in the knowledge and practices of doctors regarding animal bite management. Less than half were aware of the intradermal rabies prophylaxis schedule (39.1%), site (42.2%), and dose (48.4%). The majority (81.4%) knew of the postexposure schedule in unimmunized patients. However, only 40.4% knew of the postexposure schedule in previously immunized patients, and 47.8% knew of the preexposure prophylaxis schedule. Government doctors had significantly better knowledge than private doctors with respect to the postexposure intramuscular schedule in unimmunized individuals, intramuscular site, dose, and classification of animal bites. There is a need for doctors in all health care settings to update their knowledge on different aspects related to animal bite management.

28:T431,

This study describes the body mass status of older (≥60 years) Singaporeans, using the international and Asian body mass index (BMI) classifications, assesses sociodemographic correlates of BMI, underweight, obesity, and “high-risk” BMI (≥27.5 kg/m²), and ascertains the relationship between body mass and important health outcomes. Prevalence of underweight, obesity, and high-risk BMI among 4371 older Singaporeans was 6.8%, 7.4%, and 18.6%, respectively. Women (vs men) and Malays and Indians (vs Chinese) were more likely to have obesity or high-risk BMI. Increasing education decreased the odds of obesity and high-risk BMI only among women. Prevalence and odds of various health conditions was similar in corresponding categories of the two BMI classifications. Whereas the prevalence of obesity is lower among elderly in Singapore than in many other countries, the prevalence of high-risk BMI is considerable. It is important to address high-risk BMI among them, with elderly of minority ethnic groups, especially females, being a priority.

29:T473,

Obesity is a global epidemic and has become a critical issue in Gulf countries such as Kuwait. The objective of this study is to assess the factors that are associated with overweight and obesity among Kuwaiti adult men. Weights and heights of a random sample of 464 men and their companions were collected to obtain body mass index (BMI). The overall levels of overweight and obesity were 48.5% and 19.8%, respectively. Logistic regression analysis of significantly associated factors revealed that factors contributing to risk of overweight and obesity included increasing age, having an obese mother or brother(s) and/or other obese relatives, having a lower grade point average, not being physically active, and being in poor health. Having a higher income and feeling tired were risk factors for obesity only. Family history is an important predictor of overweight and obesity in Kuwaiti men; however, this study identified several modifiable factors. It is recommended that factors that contribute to the development of overweight and obesity in Kuwait be targeted with behavioral change and/or health education interventions.

2a:T436,

Aim. The objective of this study is are to examine the association of preadolescent obesity using body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) with health-related physical fitness components. Methods. Grades 4 to 6 students in 2 private schools in Manila were included in this study. Height, weight, WC, and BMI were obtained. Physical fitness field tests were sit-and-reach test, 1-minute sit-ups, standing broad jump, 40-m sprint, and 20-m shuttle run. Results. Obese subjects had poorer scores in the field tests except in the sit-and-reach test. BMI and WC were significantly negatively associated with all the physical fitness parameters, except for the 40-m sprint where positive correlation was observe