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Interpreting Growth Charts

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Dr Chitra Selvan, Bengaluru    21 November 2018

Growth charts are graphical tools which assist in the diagnosis of disorders related to growth and also aid in follow-up. Height charts, weight charts, BMI charts and height velocity charts are commonly used. Some growth charts are growth standards (e.g., WHO 2006 under 5) and some growth references (IAP 2015). Centile curves help in comparing a child with standard population according to age. Target height calculation and plotting at 18 years estimates the genetic potential of height. Height less than 3rd centile is considered stunting and requires evaluation. WHO 2006 chart is accepted as standard for under 5 age group and IAP 2015 is the latest reference for 5-18 year olds. Less than 25th centile in the height velocity chart requires evaluation. Special charts are available for special populations like Down’s and Turner’s syndrome. Recent evidence has suggested that growth charts for singletons might not be appropriate for twins. BMI centile over 85th is considered as overweight and over 95th as obese in children.

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