Early linear growth retardation in Chongqing, China.
OBJECTIVE
The objectives of this study were to investigate early linear growth retardation and to identify potential risk factors for it.


METHODS
A community-based prospective study was performed in Chongqing, China, with infants being examined at 12 and 15 months of age. A total of 101 infants were examined twice. Supine length, bodyweight, lower leg length, head circumference, middle upper arm circumference and biceps skinfold thickness were measured.


RESULTS
The prevalence of short stature (length-for-age standard deviation score, < -2) was 22% and 23% at 12 and 15 months of age, respectively, while the incidence of growth stunting (low growth velocity) between 12 and 15 months of age was 24%, using the stunting screening method. A mother having a history of abortion and infants having current episodes of diarrhoea were identified as risk factors for growth stunting.


CONCLUSIONS
We conclude that both short stature and growth stunting are common in the population studied. The stunting screening method used is applicable in developing communities.
Department of Paediatrics, Queen Mary Hospital, University of Hong Kong, PR China. chcums@chcums.ac.cn
Y X
YX
Liu
H Q
HQ
Li
X Q
XQ
Yang
J
J
Karlberg
D000886:Anthropometry; D002681:China / Q000453:epidemiology; D005260:Female; D006130:Growth Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology*; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D016014:Linear Models; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D015995:Prevalence; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors