Early linear growth retardation in Chongqing, China

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to investigate early linear g rowth retardation adn 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 leng th, 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, wh ile the incidence of growth stunting (low growth velocity) between 12 and 1 5 months of age was 24%, using the stunting screening method. A mother havi ng a history of abortion and infants having current episodes of diarrhoea w ere identified as risk factors for growth stunting. Conclusions: We conclude that both short stature and growth stunting are co mmon in the population studied. The stunting screening method used is appli cable in developing communities.