Anthropometric measurements of primary school children in bangladesh

Abstract

Abstract Background: It is very useful to know anthropometric data in order to select the physical dimensions of equipment, furniture, etc. Furniture without having correct anthropometric data can have a negative impact on the people using it. So, correct and specific anthropometric dimensions are necessary for developing furniture for school children. Anthropometrical dimensions are different according to the age, gender, ethnic groups, and differ in different countries. In Bangladesh there were no anthropometric databases available of children to help design suitable furniture for them. Several global studies have shown a mismatch between the physical dimensions of children and class room furniture. Objective of the study: This study aimed to develop an anthropometric database of the Bangladeshi primary school children aged 6-11 years. This study was designed to understand any significant differences among the Bangladeshi children aged 6-11 years, between their genders and those living in urban or rural areas. Methodology: This study was conducted using Quantitative cross sectional methodology. By using the convenience random procedure a total of 260 participants aged 6-11 years were selected from two areas (urban and rural) of Bangladesh. Equal percentages were ensured in age ranges, genders and locations during the participant’s selection. A total of 22 body dimensions were measured and the data was compared between the boys and girls, rural and urban. Data analysis: The total analysis process was carried out using the SPSS computer package. Descriptive statistics were used to calculate mean averages, standard deviations and key percentiles. Independent sample T-tests were used to compare the data between the genders and locations (rural and urban). Result: This study showed the means, medians and standard deviations of 22 anthropometric dimensions in 6-11 years Bangladeshi children. It also shows the key percentiles for product design. The anthropometric dimensions were compared between males and females. Some measurements were significantly different with regard to gender, but most of the measurements were not significantly different with regard to gender. Some measurements were higher in boys and some in girls. In this study, there were significant differences in body dimensions between urban and rural children. Children living in urban areas were higher than children in rural area of Bangladesh.