Final answer:
The acceptable body fat percentage for the 28-39 age group is likely closest to A) Males: 20% and Females: 30%, as it falls within the optimal ranges suggested for reducing disease risk and aligns with differences in gender-based physiological needs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The allowable body fat percentage for the 28-39 age group, according to health standards, would be closest to the option A) Males: 20%; Females: 30%. This is because the optimal fat content for a female is between 20 and 30 percent of her total weight and for a male is between 12 and 20 percent. These ranges are recommended to reduce the risk of disease and are based on factors including sex, age, and levels of physical activity. Women tend to have more fat mass than men, partly due to hormonal differences and reproductive needs. It's also notable that body fat percentage influences the basal metabolic rate (BMR), with men typically having a lower body fat percentage and, consequently, a higher BMR.
Furthermore, proper measurement of fat mass is crucial, with methods such as the skin-fold test being commonly used. Results of such tests are compared against standards for young to middle-aged adults to assess body fatness. Understanding and maintaining an appropriate body fat percentage is essential for overall health and can help prevent conditions associated with high body fat levels, such as morbid obesity.