Physical growth assessment in adolescence
Agarwal, K.N.; Saxena, A.; Bansal, A.K.; Agarwal, D.K.
Indian Pediatrics 38(11): 1217-1235
2001
ISSN/ISBN: 0019-6061 PMID: 11721062 Document Number: 535679
Objective: A cross-sectional study was conducted in India to describe the body mass index (BMI), ponderal index (PI) and skin fold thickness (triceps, biceps, subscapular and suprailiac) of adolescents. Methods: Data on healthy affluent adolescents students were collected (1988-91) from 23 public schools in 12 cities in India (11 863 boys and 7694 girls). Means and percentiles of ponderosity indices and skinfold thicknesses at yearly intervals were derived for each sex, and were related to sexual maturity. Results: BMI, PI and skin fold thickness (SFT) were higher in girls than boys. There was lower variability of these parameters with sexual maturity rating (breast/genital development stages) as compared to age, suggesting use of these indices in relation to sexual maturity for assessment of adolescent growth. Conclusion: Paediatricians and endocrinologists can use these indices for assessment of thinness and obesity, in adolescent Indian children, in relation to sexual maturity for the age.