Factors Affecting Growth

Genetics Parental size has a direct influence on a child’s growth potential and their predicted adult height; more so for height than weight. A child with short stature may be of concern because of possible illness or poor nutrition, but for a short child with short parents they are possibly genetically small. Extreme shortness may be due to a combination of genetic and non-genetic factors. Complex calculations can be performed to predict the child’s height potential based on their parents’ heights [1]. Calculate mid-parental height by adding both parents’ heights together and dividing by two. Charts are available to determine the predicted height based on mid-parental height. A child whose adjusted stature is still low should be investigated further for illness or poor nutrition. [1]. It is normal that five percent of all children will grow below the 5 centile on height for age charts and be healthy.