High values of body mass index do not worsen the parameters of sensorimotor reactivity in adolescents 15—17 years

Abstract

Relations between the latent periods of the simple sensorimotor reaction to the light stimulus (LPRS) and the body mass index (BMI) in the adolescents aged 15—17 years were analyzed. The distribution of adolescents into groups was based on their age (15, 16 and 17 years), gender (bo ys and girls), and the value of BMI.  In each sex-age group, the median and standard deviation for BMI were calculated, the mean values from Me-1SD to Me+1SD were interpreted as normal, the values up to (or equal to) Me-1SD were considered as low BMI, over (or equal) Me+1SD — as high BMI. It is shown that in all sex-age groups the adolescents, which differing in value of the body mass index react to a light stimulus with equal latency periods. However, there are gender differences in the latent periods of a simple sensorimotor reaction to a light stimulus (young men react more quickly). In a number of cases, correlation relationships have been revealed between BMI and LPRS: 16-year-old girls and 17-year-olds have negative correlation of LPRS with their growth (higher adolescents respond more quickly to stimulus); 16-year-olds have a negative correlation of LPRS with body weight and BMI (larger boys react more quickly to the signal).