General information
An index using height and the mid-upper-arm circumference as variables to assess nutritional status in children: a very good indicator of wasting.
It is a quick and easy way to categorize children (between 74 and 109cm*) into three nutritional status groups: good nutritional status, moderate wasting and severe wasting.
Independent of age, it is faster and no more difficult to measure than height or weight.
It provides a more accurate reflection, as compared to weight measurements, of the person’s real nutritional reserves.
*Adaptations to this range may be required where there is a high prevalence of stunting (chronic malnutrition).
Specifications
Adhesive tape or band:, length 150cm, width 10cm.
Graduation scale: indicates nutrition level based on arm circumference and height.
It should be attached to a wooden base (see ICRC nutrition manual page 652).
Larger numbers correspond to arm circumference measures.
Smaller numbers correspond to the height measures.
Graduation right-hand scale, 85%: Black colour, starts at a 13.25 arm circumference and a height of 72cm.
Graduation left-hand scale, 75%: Red colour, starts at a 11.75 arm circumference and a height of 72cm.