[Age variability of anthropometric parameters of schoolchildren in the city of Nal'chik]

Abstract

Using unified Bunak's method, age- and gender-related growth dynamics of anthropometric parameters was evaluated in 2428 schoolchildren aged 7-18 years living in the city of Nal'chik. The first curve decussation of the absolute values studied, indicative of the beginning of puberty in girls occured at the age of 9.5 to 11.5 years; the second, which is typical for the puberty in boys, took place at the age of 11.5 to 14.5. After the second curve decussation (after 15 years), all the investigated parameters in boys, with the exception of pelvic width, were significantly higher as compared to those in girls; maximal differences were detected at the age of 18. The girls pass ahead of the boys in their development by 2-3 years. Quetelet II index values were found to be normal both in boys and girls at 18 years, indicating the moderate degree of development of subcutaneous adipose tissue.