Assessment of gestational age using anthropometric parameters: an observational study in India
Abstract
Introduction: The gestational age of newborn is assessed by standard method New Ballard’s score but it can also be assessed by some other simple parameters which are less time consuming and significantly correlate with gestational age.
Material and Methods: The study population included 209 consecutive live born singleton newborn of 28-40 weeks of gestation. Data were recorded and analyzed by applying correlation and regression analysis. Regression equation was derived to predict gestational age from foot length and mid upper arm circumference (MUAC).
Result: The foot length, MUAC and nipple to umbilicus distance correlated very well with gestational age with R2=0.7843, 0.7832 and 0.6630 respectively and when used in combination i.e. foot length and MUAC as R2= 0.833.The quadratic regression equation obtained was Y=0.006X2 – 0.174X + 5.081 (Y is gestational age and X is the mean of foot length and MUAC).
Conclusion: Foot length is an easy parameter and can be used as a proxy measure for New Ballard’s score. Foot length and MUAC when used in combination can be used as a better and reliable guide for gestational age assessment of newborn. Also, the foot length, MUAC and nipple to umbilicus distance at cut-off value of 7 cm, 7 cm and 8 cm respectively can be used as ready reference for gestational age assessment of newborn at 34 weeks.
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