The 2nd Hungarian National Growth Study (2003-2006).

Background: Secular changes in the pattern of growth and maturation have been analysed by many regional surveys in Hungary during the last century. The first representative Hungarian National Growth Study was carried out between 1980-1983.

Aim: The main objectives of the 2nd Hungarian National Growth Study (2003-2006) were to construct reference data of the most important indicators of body development and nutritional status in Hungarian children (aged 3-18 years, n = 25 278); to analyse the influence of nutrition, habitual physical activity and socio-economic background factors on body development; to study secular changes in the pattern of development in Hungary in the last 20 years; and to analyse the relationship between body development and psychic health.

Subjects And Methods: Anthropometric dimensions and proportions, sexual maturity status, body composition, nutritional status and body shape were used for body developmental estimation. Some indicators of psychic health were also investigated.

Results: Reference centiles and data of all absolute body dimensions, some relative body dimensions and the pattern of eating and habitual physical activity have been constructed.

Conclusion: Secular changes in the growth and maturation pattern are still taking place in the Hungarian population; sexual maturation in boys has shifted to a younger age.