Sex-specific equations for predicting maturity offset showed significant differences compared to actual ages at peak height velocity across the age range in both sexes, limiting their utility.
Observational (n=137)
Sex-specific equations for predicting maturity offset, time before or after peak height velocity (PHV), were evaluated in 63 girls and 74 boys from the Fels Longitudinal Study. Serially measured heights (0.1 cm), sitting heights (0.1 cm), weights (0.1 kg), and estimated leg lengths (0.1 cm) from 8 to 18 years were used. Predicted age at PHV (years) was calculated as the difference between chronological age (CA) and maturity offset. Actual age at PHV for each child was derived with a triple logistic model (Bock-Thissen-du Toit). Mean predicted maturity offset was negative and lowest at 8 years and increased linearly with increasing CA. Predicted ages at PHV increased linearly with CA from 8 to 18 years in girls and from 8 to 13 years in boys; predictions varied within relatively narrow limits from 12 to 15 years and then increased to 18 years in boys. Differences between predicted and actual ages at PHV among youth of contrasting maturity status were significant across the age range in both sexes. Dependence of predicted age at PHV upon CA at prediction and on actual age at PHV limits its utility as an indicator of maturity timing and in sport talent programs.
Malina et al. (Tue,) conducted a observational in Healthy children (maturity offset prediction) (n=137). Sex-specific equations for predicting maturity offset vs. Actual age at peak height velocity (triple logistic model) was evaluated on Differences between predicted and actual ages at peak height velocity. Sex-specific equations for predicting maturity offset showed significant differences compared to actual ages at peak height velocity across the age range in both sexes, limiting their utility.