Different anthropometric equations have been developed and cross-validated for its use in distinct populations through multicompartimentals models. Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) is a multicompartimental alternative for body composition assessment, however, in Brazil, this model still is not often used, especially for the analysis of the muscle mass (MM). Thus, the purpose of this study was to cross-validate anthropometric equations to estimate relative body fat and MM from DEXA, in young male Brazilian college students. For this, 131 young adults between 18 and 36 years (73,9 ± 9,7 kg; 177,6 ± 6,4 cm; MM = 32,1 ± 3,6 kg) had been evaluated by means of DEXA and anthropometric measures (body mass, stature, circumferences and skinfold thicknesses), been analyzed four equations for the calculation of the MM. The following analysis were applied: descriptive statistics, procedures of cross-validation and analysis of agreement (ICC and Bland and Altman). Equation 3 [MM (kg) = E.(0,00744.CBrC² + 0,00088.CC x C² + 0,00441.CPantC²) + 2,4.S - 0,048.Id + R + 7,8] of Lee et al. (Am J Clin Nutr 2000;72:796-803) was validated, for the evaluation of the MM (t = 1,13; r = 0,83; EPE = 2,08; d = 0,21). Beyond this, equation 4, from the same researchers [MM (kg) = 0,244.MC + 7,8.E + 6,6.S - 0,098.Id + R - 3,3] were suggested for its use in the studied sample, in view of the low values presented of EPE (2,20), EC (-0,72), ET (2,72) and d (-0,77) and the good agreements fond (from moderate to high). New cross-validation studies are suggested in different samples, using DEXA as the reference method, as well is suggested a greater utilization of anthropometric equations for the assessment of MM, for the following of MM changes in relation to the growth, development and aging process, and in the evaluation of the physical and sports training.
body composition; cross-validation; DEXA; adults
