The objective of this growth utility program is to predict a measure of a child's biological maturity. Peak height velocity (PHV) is a somatic biological maturity indicator and reflects the maximum velocity in statural growth during adolescence. The SCGD research group has developed gender specific multiple-regression equations that predict how far an individual is from this maturational milestone (years from age at PHV).1 The prediction of how far an individual is from their Age of Peak Height Velocity(APHV) is based on the differential growth and timing of leg length and sitting height. Legs grow first and are followed by sitting height growth. In addition, the closer an individual is to these events, the more accurate the prediction. Therefore, the ideal age of prediction is 9 to 13 years in females and 12 to 16 years in males.

To predict the years from APHV the following variables are required: gender, date of birth, date of measurement, height, sitting height and weight. Accuracy of the measurements is of paramount importance, as any errors especially in sitting height will dramatically alter the precision of the prediction. Detailed description of the measurement protocols can be found here.

1 Mirwald, R.L., Baxter-Jones, A.D.G., Bailey, D.A., Beunen G.P. An assessment of maturity from anthropometric measurements. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise 2002: 34(4); 689-694.

(mm/dd/yyyy)
(mm/dd/yyyy)
(e.g. 170.5 cm or 67.1 inches)
(e.g. 82.3 cm or 32.4 inches)
(e.g. 60.3 kg or 132.7 lbs)

Disclaimers:

  • This utility is designed for use in pediatric populations between the chronological age range of 8 to 16 in females and 9 to 18 in males and a maturity age range of -4 to + 4 years from peak height velocity. Any predictions outside these age ranges will be associated with a degree of error in the prediction and therefore will not be calculated.
  • Accuracy of the measurements input into the predictions is of paramount importance, especially for the variable sitting height. Large measurement error will be associated with a degree of error in the prediction. (For a description of measurements methods, please see the Measurements Protocol page.)
  • Prediction of age at peak height velocity is only appropriate prior to the event and two years after the event. In boys this is roughly between 12 and 16 years and for girls 9 to 13 years. The further away from the event the greater the error in the prediction.
  • Predictive equations for age at peak height velocity and adult height are based on a normal, white Caucasian population. Predictions in other races may be associated with a degree of error in the prediction.
  • Prediction of Bone Mineral Content (BMC) at the four bone sites provides specific racial equations (Caucasian, Asian, Black and Hispanic) for a Hologic QDR-4500 instrument only.
  • This utility will only work if the 'Date of Test' is earlier than the current date and time in the Central/Mountain time zone. The current date and time is 12-Mar-15, 09:53 AM