Development of new demi-span equations from a nationally representative sample of adults to estimate maximal adult height

Abstract

Various measures have been used to estimate height when assessing nutritional status. Current equations to obtain demispan equivalent height (DEHBassey) are based on a small sample from a single study. The objectives of this study were to develop more robust DEH equations from a large number of men (n = 591) and women (n = 830) aged 25-45 y from a nationally representative cross-sectional sample (Health Survey for England 2007). Sex-specific regression equations were produced from young adults' (aged 25-45 y) measured height and demi-span to estimate new DEH equations (DEH new). DEH in people aged ≥ 65 y was calculated using DEH new. DEHnew estimated current height in people aged 25-45 y with a mean difference of 0.04 in men (P = 0.80) and -0.29 in women (P = 0.05). Height, demi-span, DEHnew, and DEHBassey declined by age group in both sexes aged ≥65 y (P < 0.05); DEH were larger than the measured height for all age groups (mean difference between DEHnew and current height was -2.64 in men and -3.16 in women; both P < 0.001). Comparisons of DEH estimates showed good agreement, but DEHnew was significantly higher than DEHBassey in each age and sex group in older people. The new equations that are based on a large, randomly selected, nationally representative sample of young adults are more robust for predicting current height in young adults when height measurements are unavailable and can be used in the future to predict maximal adult height more accurately in currently young adults as they age. © 2010 American Society for Nutrition.