Nutritional surveillance of young children in developing countries

Abstract

This paper discusses simple but effective methods of surveillance of growth and nutrition of children in developing countries where resources are scarce and food shortages most likely to occur. In the youngest age group, the simplest weight-for-age chart, already used, is undoubtedly the best method. Where the age of children is not known, arm circumference provides an acceptable alternative. In older children, arm circumference alone may not be reliable and can be improved by measuring height as well and combining the two results.