LOW-BACK-PAIN AND BODY-MASS INDEX

We have examined the association between body mass index and the preva lence of low back pain in about a quarter of a million male recruits a ged 17-18 years at the time of their medical draft examination. Low ba ck pain prevalence is shown to rise with increasing body mass index. T his statistically significant association may suggest a role of body w eight and height in the pathogenesis of low back pain and supports the previously reported need for education regarding weight reduction as a useful implement in low back pain prevention.