Chapter 2


Table 2.7 Characteristics of Commonly Used Anthropometric Indicators


Basis of measurement Reference standard Grading of status Characteristics

Weight-for-age NCHS growth standards Normal +2 to -2SD Widely used and understood. Combines effects of
 (median) Moderate <-2SD past and present episodes of disease/malnutrition
 Severe <-3SD

 Height-for-age NCHS growth standards Normal +2 to -2SD Integrates effects over whole of life up to age of
 (median) Moderate <-2SD measurements. Insensitive to acute episodes.
 Severe <-3SD

 Weight-for-height NCHS growth standards Normal +2 to -2SD Indicates current or recent episodes, insensitive to
 Moderate <-2SD small but normal proportioned individuals
 (median) Severe <-3SD

 Mid-upper arm Single figure of 16.5cm Normal >13.5cm Indicates current or recent episodes. Fast, cheap,
 circumference for all children between 1 Moderate 12.5-13.5cm reliable (with careful training). Good predictor of
 and 5 years Severe <12.5cm mortality risk. Needs only approximate ages.

Source: WHO, Measuring Change in Nutritional Status, Guidelines for assessing the nutritional impact of supplementary feeding programmes for vulnerable groups.Geneva, 1983.
 WHO, Physical Status: the use and interpretation of anthropometry. WHO Technical Report Series No. 854. Geneva, 1996.


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