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.