Anthropometric Reference Data for Children and Adults: United States, 2015-2018

Abstract

Based on nationally representative anthropometric data, the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) has published reference tables on the distribution of various body measurements for the U.S. population (1-5). National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data are the primary source of body measurement information for the U.S. population. These measurements reflect the mean weight, height, length, and various circumferences of U.S. children and adults. Anthropometry is a measure of nutritional or general health status, dietary adequacy, and growth. This report presents anthropometric reference data from the years 2015-2018 for U.S. children and adults.