Summary

Introduction

Background on anthropometry

Current WHO recommendations for adolescent anthropometry

Description of WHO recommendations

Application of the WHO recommendations

Complications of adolescent anthropometry

Changes in body proportions with age

Pubertal development

Interethnic differences in body size and shape

Which anthropometric index?

Weight-for-height measures

Theoretical problems with indices using weight and height

Practical problems with indices using weight and height

MUAC

Theoretical problems with the use of MUAC

Practical problems with the use of MUAC

Possible solutions for the future

Changes in body proportions with age

Pubertal development

Inter-ethnic differences in genetic growth potential

Use of other data

Future research needs

Conclusions and recommendations

References

ANNEX 1. Median and 70% of median weights for various heights, for males and female adolescents. Data from Michael Golden.

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