[Skinfold thickness in a group of Roman schoolchildren]

Triceps, biceps, subscapular and supra-iliac skinfold measurements were taken on 871 children, aged 7-14, in three Roman schools. Girls have larger skinfolds than boys; the values at every site increase with age. Boys present an increase in skinfold measurements until 11 years, then a decrease, more marked at 14 years. Skinfold measurements are a method to assess the amount of fat in the body. Age reference curves, prepared from many Authors, in various parts of the world, show differences between different populations. Skinfold reference data for Italian population therefore are necessary.