title: A method of presenting longitudinal growth data.
abstract: 1. Longitudinal growth profiles contain much information but are difficult to incorporate into mathematical and statistical analyses. 2. A growth function, which is a weighted average of growth achievement at different ages, is proposed. 3. This function is a non-dimensional number with defined statistical properties, and emphasizes growth achievement in early life. It can be used to compare the growth of individuals and populations.
mesh_terms: D000375:Aging; D001827:Body Height; D001835:Body Weight; D002675:Child, Preschool; D006128:Growth; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008433:Mathematics