[Analysis of 2 studies of weight and height separated by a 50-year interval in children of Mexico City].
The investigation of somatometric values to be used as reference patterns for Mexican children has de be scanty; the author mentions the most significant works carried out within the last 50 years. Considering that the material is comparable and in view of the magnitude of the samples, (4,757 vs. 5,533 cases) the author analyses the values published in 1926 and his own (1975). Differences in weight, height and corporal surface were found in both sexes at 5 years, which gradually increases to become quite marked at 17 years of age. At the same time, there was acceleration in development which was calculated in 14 months within 50 years; thus, in 1926, menarche was expected at 159 months of age when the average weight reached 45,600 gms. and height was 149.5 cm., while at present, it is expected at 144 months, with same weight and height. The rate weight/height has remained unchanged, but the silhouette has changed because of greater relative growth of the lower segment. The author comments that these changes, favorable to the privileged groups may not be found in the rural areas and that in some places, the height in females is gradually decreasing at the rate of 1 cm, every 5 years, which means a remarkable impairment.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D001827:Body Height; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006128:Growth; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D008800:Mexico; D012737:Sex Factors
Análisis de dos estudios de peso y talla hechos con 50 años de diferencia en niños de la ciudad de México.