Early linear growth retardation in Chongqing, China

OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this study were to investigate early linear growth retardation and to identify potential risk factors for it. METHODOLOGY: A community-based prospective study was performed in Chongqing, China, with infants being examined at 12 and 15 months of age. A total of 101 infants were examined twice. Supine length, bodyweight, lower leg length, head circumference, middle upper arm circumference and biceps skinfold thickness were measured. RESULTS: The prevalence of short stature (length-for-age standard deviation score, < -2) was 22% and 23% at 12 and 15 months of age, respectively, while the incidence of growth stunting (low growth velocity) between 12 and 15 months of age was 24%, using the stunting screening method. A mother having a history of abortion and infants having current episodes of diarrhoea were identified as risk factors for growth stunting. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that both short stature and growth stunting are common in the population studied. The stunting screening method used is applicable in developing communities.