Tape measure, MUAC (mid-upper arm circumference)

General information

Arm circumference, also referred to as the mid-upper-arm circumference (MUAC) or brachial circumference, is used to estimate lean mass and adipose tissue, which constitute the two components of nutritional reserves, and thus more accurate than weight. It is also considered a good predictor of mortality risk.

The MUAC tape measure is used on the left arm. With the arm bent and held against the torso, the summit of the shoulder (the acromium) to the tip of the elbow (the olecranon) is measured; the mid-point is marked and is where the circumference measure is then taken. The arm must hang in a relaxed position and the armband (strip) must contact with the entire circumference of arm; this is done by applying finger pressure. It should not be so tight as to cause the skin to bulge around the tape, nor should there be any space left between the tape and the skin. It is best to slide the tape through the reading window without pulling on the ends. The circumference is recorded to the nearest millimetre.

Used for measuring the brachial circumference of children aged 6 months to 5 years (or a height of 65 to 109.5cm where age is unknown).  Also used for adults.

Enables rapid screening of acute malnutrition, which carries a high risk of mortality

Used for initial evaluations, nutritional surveys and detection within specific communities.

Specifications