Growth of Australian Aboriginal Children Related to Social Circumstances

Abstract

Surveys were conducted of the growth of Aboriginal children in 3 South Australian communities of differing social circumstances. Significant differences were found between the 3 groups'' growth parameter, with better growth paralleling improvement in living conditions. Normal growth occurred in Aboriginal children who came from similar environments to Caucasian children and comparison with the latter group revealed no significant differences in growth. The relationship held when studied over time.