Z-score growth reference data for Saudi preschool children.

Abstract

BACKGROUNDAssessment of growth using Z-score methods is important for clinical care and research, yet growth reference Z-score data for preschool Saudi children are not available.OBJECTIVEEstablish Z-score tables and corresponding growth charts.DESIGNUses data from a national survey in 2004–2005.SETTINGCommunity-based random sample of preschool Saudi children.SUBJECTS AND METHODSRaw data from the previous nationally representative sample were analyzed using the L, M, and S statistical methods to calculate Z-scores of growth.MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)Z-scores reference values for weight, length/height, head circumference, weight for length/height, and body mass index for age for boys and girls from birth to 60 months of age.RESULTSFor 15 601 Saudi children (7896, 50.6 % boys) Z-score tables and graphs from birth to 60 months of age were derived for boys and girls. The tables and graphs include weight for age, length/height for age, head circumference for age, weight for length/height, and BMI for age.CONCLUSIONZ-score reference data on the growth of preschool Saudi infants and children is essential for healthcare and research.LIMITATIONDoes not include regional variations.