Abstract
Introduction- Mid-arm circumference (MAC) has been widely used as an age-independent indicator of undernutrition at 1-5 years of age. Its role below one year of age has no t been extensively studied. Growth faltering which predicts protein-energy malnutrition ( PEM ) usually begins between ages 6 and 12 month. This study aimed to determine the age-independent character of MAC within 7-11 month age group and search for a reliable cut off point. Methods- This institutional based, cross-sectional, observational study was done at th ree government hospitals including a teaching terti ary level hospital. Study variables were age, sex, height, body weight & mid arm circumference. Mid arm circumference was validated against weight for age percentage and Standard deviation score. Results- Mean MAC of the infants increased very little with age from 7- 11months. The cut off points from 13.0 to 12.5 cm s howed maximum diagnostic accuracy. Conclusions- MAC measurement is a simple and valid tool for detection of early P EM in this crucial age bracket However, further stu dies are suggested, preferably community based and in a larger sample t o establish the validity of MAC to detect PEM in in fants.
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