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Learning Objective 1: The learner will be able to cite two methods for measuring weight gain for the pediatric population.
Learning Objective 2: The learner will be able to cite two challenges for measuring weight gain for the pediatric population.
Pediatric obesity research is replete in the scientific literature owing to the epidemic of overweight and obesity in this country. The types of questions and hypotheses are innumerable and the research is conducted in multiple settings. Obtaining an accurate weight can be difficult but measuring weight gain can be daunting. Astoundingly, no standardized definition of weight gain for children, adolescents, or adults has been agreed upon by the experts. Moreover how weight gain is measured is also a topic of debate as commonly used techniques have problems with accuracy or practicability. Methods of measuring weight and weight gain such as skin fold thickness, under water weight, dual energy x-ray absorptionometry and body mass index will be described as will the problems associated with their use in the pediatric population. Options for accurately measuring weight gain will be discussed and how they have informed ongoing research.
Inaccurate measurement of weight gain poses significant repercussions regarding the application of the findings and often is not addressed in the limitations portion of research. Consideration of characteristics unique to the pediatric population is critical. Subsequent evaluation of those characteristics translates the importance of accurate measurement to fellow researchers. Furthermore a standardized definition of weight gain in pediatric research would facilitate consistency of measurement across studies and establish the validity and reliability of the findings.