Z-score growth reference data for Saudi preschool children

BACKGROUND: Assessment of growth using Z-score methods is important for clinical care and research, yet growth reference Z-score data for preschool Saudi children are not available. OBJECTIVE: Establish Z-score tables and corresponding growth charts. DESIGN: Uses data from a national survey in 2004–2005. SETTING: Community-based random sample of preschool Saudi children. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Raw data from the previous nationally representative sample were analyzed using the L, M, and S statistical methods to calculate Z-scores of growth. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Z-scores reference values for weight, length/height, head circumference, weight for length/height, and body mass index for age for boys and girls from birth to 60 months of age. RESULTS: For 15 601 Saudi children (7896, 50.6 % boys) Z-score tables and graphs from birth to 60 months of age were derived for boys and girls. The tables and graphs include weight for age, length/height for age, head circumference for age, weight for length/height, and BMI for age. CONCLUSION: Z-score reference data on the growth of preschool Saudi infants and children is essential for healthcare and research. LIMITATION: Does not include regional variations.