UFH Professor wins Best Oral Presentation Award at global Kinanthropometry conference for innovative study

Prof Maya van Gent, an Associate Professor at the University of Fort Hare’s (UFH) Human Movement Science Department, has been awarded the Best Oral Presentation Award at the International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry (ISAK) 2024 XVII World Conference on Kinanthropometry held at St Mary’s University Twickenham London recently.

The well-deserved accolade recognizes Prof Maya’s groundbreaking research on body composition methods and their impact on predicting non-communicable disease (NCD) risk among adolescents.

Themed: “Theory to Practice”, the conference provided a platform for attendees to share their research and practical experiences, collaborate with like-minded colleagues, and learn about the latest developments in the field of anthropometry.

Prof van Gent’s paper, titled "Body Composition Methods for Predicting Non-Communicable Diseases Risk in Adolescents," delves into evaluating the efficacy of various body composition metrics. The research was part of a larger initiative funded by the MRC Research Capacity Development grants, which aimed to address physical and psychological risk factors for NCDs among Eastern Cape adolescents.

In an interview with UFH News, Prof van Gent explained the focus of her research: “Our primary goal was to design and implement a physical activity and psychoeducational intervention to reduce NCD risk factors among adolescents. The study involved a detailed situational analysis, development of tailored interventions, and a thorough evaluation of their effectiveness.”

According to her, a critical insight from the research highlighted at the conference was the relative inadequacy of Body Mass Index (BMI) in predicting NCD risk compared to skinfold measurements. “We found that skinfold measurements, which directly assess adiposity, provide a more accurate risk indication than BMI. This challenges the traditional reliance on BMI and advocates for more precise body composition assessment methods.”

Prof van Gent’s passion for kinanthropometry, the study of human body size and composition in relation to health and sports, stems from her deep-rooted curiosity about the human body. She is currently one of only three internationally accredited Level 3 ISAK anthropometrists in South Africa, a credential that allows her to impart knowledge and train others in the field.

“Receiving this award was a complete surprise and a profound honour. The positive feedback from conference attendees reaffirmed the relevance of our research and its broader contributions to the field.”

Looking ahead, Prof van Gent and her team are expanding their research to address the health impacts of sedentary behavior and are working on projects aimed at improving the holistic health of university students and staff. “Sedentary behavior, often referred to as ‘the new smoking,’ is an area with much to explore. We’re excited about our collaborations and the potential for new findings that can inform effective health strategies,” she added.

Prof van Gent also offered advice to aspiring researchers, emphasizing the importance of aligning with relevant conferences and engaging with academic networks. “Selecting the right conference and being part of academic organizations can significantly enhance research visibility and collaboration opportunities,” she advised.

This prestigious award highlights Prof van Gent’s exceptional contributions to kinanthropometry and also elevates the University of Fort Hare’s reputation in advancing research that promotes healthier populations. Her success serves as an inspiration for the academic community and reaffirms the university’s commitment to producing impactful research.