Height, Weight, and Body Mass Index in Childhood

In childhood, height (stature) and weight are the two most frequently used measures of growth and nutritional status. In addition, indices of weight for height, especially BMI, are used as a proxy for body fatness or obesity. As growth is the most sensitive indicator of overall health in childhood, it is essential that accurate measurements be made on a regular basis during routine health supervision of children and adolescents to identify and address signifi cant deviations in a timely manner.