Secular trend in the stature and weight of Mexican‐American children in Texas between 1930 and 1970

Abstract

Statures and weights for 4 samples of Mexican-American children in Texas, measured in 1929-1931 and 1968-1972, were evaluated for evidence of a secular trend. The age range was 6-18 yr, with more complete data from 8-15 yr. There is no secular increase in the statures and weights of 6 yr old children, a small increase in 8 yr old children and a larger secular increase at 10, 12, 14 and 15 yr of age. From about 9 or 10 yr of age on, the more recent Mexican-American children tend to have greater weights for their heights. The magnitude of the secular change/decade is considerably smaller than rates for USA black, white, European and Japanese children. The estimated rates of secular change in stature for Mexican-American children approximate about 1/4-1/2 of the generalized rates for European and North American children offered by Meredith and Tanner. Reasons for a limited secular trend in Texas Mexican-American children are probably bound to the matrix of lower socioeconomic circumstances, poorer health conditions and marginal nutritional status.