Changes in body size and fatness of Australian schoolchildren 1911–1976

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Abstract
Data have been analysed from surveys of Queensland schoolchildren done in 1911, 1950 and 1976. Over this period there has been a marked increase in both height-for-age and weight-for-age in boys and girls. However, in boys, this increases growth has been associated with minimal increase in fatness. In girls there has probably been a real increase in body fatness, particularly since 1950. Raw data from past growth studies would make the analysis for secular changes in stature more meaningful and accurate. We suggest that a central data bank for Australian growth studies be set up.