American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol 23, 932-939, Copyright © 1970 by The American Society for Clinical Nutrition, Inc.

Anthropometry in Preschool Children in Hawaii

¹ From the Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences and the School of Public Health, University of Hawaii, Honolulu

Eight anthropometric measurements were made on 281 2- and 3-year-old children in the city of Honolulu. Males were significantly heavier than females of the same age; males were also significantly longer in total body measurements. Significant differences between sexes were not observed, however, in trunk length, midupper arm circumference, and arm diameter-not-fat. Part-Hawaiian children had significantly longer bodies than Japanese children but differences in trunk length, midupper arm circumference, and weight were not significant. There were no significant anthropometric differences between low and middle income groups, both of which are relatively low in comparison with the cost of living in Hawaii. No statistically significant differences in skin-fold thicknesses were observed between age categories, low and middle income groups, or ethnic groups. Differences of borderline significance (5% level) between males and females were observed only on the subscapular skin-fold measurements. British standards were used to evaluate triceps and subscapular skinfold thicknesses.

Although it is impossible to positively diagnose degree of fatness for individuals from measures of heights and weights alone, in reasonably well-nourished populations, the weight-for-height classification may provide an adequate screening device.

On the basis of skin-fold definitions and weight-for-height classifications, approximately three-fourths of the Honolulu children appear to be normal, whereas 10-20% might be considered lean and another 5-10% might be considered fat.