Evaluation of Growth in Children Aged One- Two Years: a Cross- Sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: The study was conducted to evaluate growth in children aged 1-2 years. Methods: In this study conducted with 302 children and their mothers, data on children and their families were obtained using a questionnaire. Z-scores were determined by measuring the weight and height of the children, and these were compared with percentile curves developed for Turkish children. Energy and macronutrient consumption were determined by taking a daily food consumption record for each child. Results: The average age, birth weight and height of children were 18.6 +/- 3.2 months, 3.2 +/- 0.5 kg and 50.0 +/- 2.3 cm, respectively. Their current weight and height were determined as 11.4 +/- 1.6 kg and 80.6 +/- 6.5 cm. It was observed that 85.6% of the children had normal body weight, 69.5% normal BMI and 56.2% normal height z score. It has been determined that body weight and height z-scores are higher in girls compared to boys (22.1%, 32.6% and 24.7% respectively in + 2SD). Body weights of children with high monthly income were also found to be significantly higher (15.6% in + 2SD, p=0.038). Conclusions: It has been concluded that the standards, gender and the economic status of the family in this age period are effective on childrens' growth.