Identification of underweight women by measurement of the arm circumference

Abstract

A survey in Nigeria showed strong correlation between the arm circumference of women and their weight. This may be useful in assessing the nutritional status of women. The sensitivity and positive predictive values of mid-arm circumference less than 23 cm for maternal weight less than 45 kg was 62.3%, and 44.2%, respectively. Strips based on this principle can be used by lower cadres of health workers such as Traditional Birth Attendants, as a screening tool for women nutritionally at risk.