Vol. 7, Issue 3, Part B (2024)

Objective:To evaluate the accuracy and reliability of different linear growth measurement techniques utilized in Iraqi children and identify factors influencing their accuracy and reliability.

Methods:This study was conducted at six primary health care settings in Iraq, including 250 participants. Parents of children visiting these centers completed a questionnaire developed after extensive literature review. The study population primarily consisted of infants (38.0%) from urban areas (73.6%), with a slight male predominance (57.6%).

Results:Most children were classified as having "Excellent" health (56.0%), and the majority of households were high-income (82.4%). Stature assessments were prevalent (73.6%), while sitting height and arm span measurements were less common (6.4% and 7.2%, respectively). Significant variations in stature were observed between urban and rural children (p = 0.001), with no significant differences in sitting height and arm span (p>0.05). Age was a consistent predictor of stature and sitting height, with significant associations with urban residency and child health status (p<0.05). Both measurement techniques (Cronbach's alpha = 0.876) and influencing factors (Cronbach's alpha = 0.808) exhibited high internal consistency. Socio-economic factors and healthcare access significantly impacted child health outcomes, explaining over 23% of the variation.

Conclusions:This study enhances understanding of the demographic and socio-economic factors impacting child health and anthropometric measurements in Iraqi children. High Cronbach's alpha values affirm the reliability of the findings, emphasizing the importance of reliable measurement instruments for targeted interventions and improved child health outcomes. Further research is needed to explore regional variations.