Height Growth Velocity Formula:
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Height Growth Velocity (HV) measures how quickly a child is growing over time. It's calculated as the change in height divided by the change in age, typically expressed in centimeters per year (cm/year). This measurement is crucial for assessing normal growth patterns in children and adolescents.
The calculator uses the following simple formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the average growth rate between two measurement points. For accurate results, measurements should be taken at least 6 months apart.
Details: Growth velocity is a more sensitive indicator of growth problems than single height measurements. It helps identify growth disorders, assess nutritional status, and monitor response to growth hormone therapy.
Tips: Enter both height measurements in centimeters and both ages in years. The second age must be greater than the first age, and the second height should be equal to or greater than the first height for normal growth calculations.
Q1: What is a normal growth velocity?
A: Normal values vary by age: Infants grow about 25 cm/year, toddlers 10-12 cm/year, prepubertal children 5-6 cm/year, and adolescents during peak growth 8-10 cm/year.
Q2: When should I be concerned about growth velocity?
A: If growth velocity falls below the 5th percentile for age or crosses percentiles downward on growth charts, medical evaluation may be needed.
Q3: How often should growth velocity be measured?
A: Typically every 6-12 months for routine monitoring, or more frequently if growth concerns exist.
Q4: Can growth velocity predict adult height?
A: While it provides information about current growth patterns, multiple factors influence final adult height.
Q5: Does growth velocity vary seasonally?
A: Some studies show slightly faster growth in spring/summer months compared to fall/winter.