Age changes in some somatometric characters of the Assamese Muslims of Kamrup district, Assam

Growth in weight, stature, sitting height, lower extremity length, head circumference and girth of biceps, chest and calf were studied in a cross-sectional sample of Assamese Muslims in Kamrup district, Assam, India. The sample comprised 835 boys and 894 girls, aged 3-20 years. The average growth pattern for the linear body dimensions was analysed by fitting Preece Baines model I to the mean values. The other dimensions were analysed in terms of simple line charts. Average final size and age at peak velocity of the linear dimensions were derived from the fitted curves. The data for height and weight were compared with other samples of the same district, with national urban and rural growth data for India, and with the NCHS growth standards. Mean height and weight of Assamese Muslim children fluctuates between the 5th and 10th centile of the NCHS standards up to approximately 15 years in boys and 13 years in girls. Thereafter, average length and weight lags behind the American standards, ending up below the 5th centile. The differences between the growth of Assamese Muslims and other populations are discussed.