Growth curves of anthropometric indices in a general population of French children and comparison with reference data

Background: The description of growth patterns of the different anthropometric measurements mainly used in epidemiological studies is useful to better understand the development of obesity in children and its consequences. Objective: Our aim was to establish growth curves of anthropometric indices in a general population of French children born during the 1980s and to compare them with the French reference curves based on children born in the 1950s. Design: As part of the Fleurbaix Laventie Ville Sante Studies I and II (FLVS), 441 girls and 467 boys were examined at least twice between 1993 and 2001. Height, weight and four skinfold thicknesses were measured. Body mass index (BMI), sum of peripheral and truncal skinfolds and truncal-to-peripheral ratio were calculated. Mean growth curves from ages 5 to 17 years were assessed for these indices, calculating means and 95% confidence interval per 1 year age group and by gender. Results: Trajectories with age differed importantly according to the index considered; BMI was the one with the smallest difference between genders and the most linear shape with age. From the age of 5 years and after, the FLVS children were on average taller and had a higher subcutaneous adiposity than children born 30 years earlier. Truncal-to-peripheral ratio was higher in our population; this difference became more marked with puberty in girls. Discussion: This study suggests the existence of a secular trend towards a precocious accelerated growth, and a more truncal adiposity distribution, especially in girls. It is a disquieting trend considering its expected consequences on adult health.