ИСТИНА

Introduction. The purpose was to investigate peculiar properties of basal metabolic rate in the southern Sinai semi-nomadic endogamous tribe Museina; explore the age variability of physiological parameters of cardiovascular, respiratory systems and basal metabolic rate in accordance with the values of some anthropometric characteristics; to compare the results of empirical measurements of basal metabolic rate with those calculated by the standard equations regression approach [Harris, Benedict, 1918; Boothby et al., 1939; Schofield et al, 1985]. Materials and methods Antropometric data were collected in 1979-1982 by a research team of the Department of Anatomy and Anthropology, Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University. The sample of adult men of Museina tribe consisted of 150 individuals, the age range varied from 17 to 70years. The Bedouins of Museina were examined by standard anthropometric program [Martin, 1928], for the study were selected 3 groups of traits:1- body height and weight, 2- chest circumference, chest breadth and depth, 3 - skinfolds. The blood pressure was measured twice on the left arm after a five-minute break by single investigator. The mean of two values included in the analysis. Body temperature was determined in the mouth, under the tongue for two minutes. Right and left hand force was determined by dynamometer twice. Basal metabolic rate (BMR) (kcal/h) was measured in 88 men by indirect calorimetry with the use of «The Benedict-Roth Metabolism Apparatus». Results. Museina tribe can be described as not susceptible to the accumulation of excess weight (obesity). Lack of any association between blood pressure rate and body mass index (BMI) was recorded. Experimental data of basal metabolic rate are significantly higher in older age groups; no age differences were observed in metabolic rate calculated by standard equations regression approach Detected no association of BMI with blood pressure values. The studied group can be characterized by relatively low rates of physical development, a low predisposition to obesity, lower risk of hypertension. The average basal metabolic rate in the South Sinai Bedouin tribe Muzeina (1591.2 ± 226.5kkal/man) is comparable with those of undernourished populations. It was shown the significant independent of body weight association between the basal metabolic rate and blood pressure values. Detected the phenomenon of elevated basal metabolic rate in the oldest age group of the South Sinai Bedouin tribe Muzeina.