Correlation between anthropometric measurements of height and arm span in Indonesian children aged 7-12 years: a cross-sectional study

Height is an anthropometric measurement that serves as the most constant indicator of growth. In certain circumstances, arm span can be used as an alternative to height measurements. This study aims to analyze the correlation between anthropometric measurements of height and arm span in children aged 7-12 years. A cross-sectional study was carried out from September to December 2019 in six elementary schools in Bandung. Children aged 7-12 years were recruited with a multistage cluster random sampling method. Children with scoliosis, contractures, and stunting were excluded from the study. Height and arm span were measured by two pediatricians. A total of 1,114 children, comprising 596 boys and 518 girls, fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The ratio of height to arm span was 0.98-1.01. The regression equation used to predict height through measurement of arm span in male subjects was Height = 21.8623 + 0.7634 x Arm span (cm) + 0.0791 x age (month); R2 = 94%; standard error of estimate (SEE): 2.66 and that in female subjects was Height = 21.2395 + 0.7779 x Arm span (cm) + 0.0701 x age (month); R2 = 95.4%; SEE: 2.39. The predicted height and the average actual height were not significantly different. There is a strong correlation between height and arm span in children aged 7-12 years. Arm span can be used to predict the actual height of children aged 7-12 years and as an alternative measurement for growth.