The Korea Infant Physical Growth Examination Survey (KIPGroS): a study protocol

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Public Health
• Anthropometry

Background:

• Growth charts are crucial for assessing child development and population health.
• Korea's national growth charts were last updated in 2017.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) growth charts are used for children under three, but their applicability in Korea is unproven.

Purpose of the Study:

• To collect precise physical measurement data for Korean infants and toddlers.
• To develop new, evidence-based growth charts for children under three, focusing on breastfeeding.
• To evaluate the feasibility of using WHO growth standards as a reference in Korea.

Main Methods:

• A nationwide survey involving 6 hospitals from April 2020.
• Enrollment of mothers and newborns without growth restriction factors.
• Monthly follow-ups until 12 months, then quarterly until 36 months, collecting physical, dietary, health, and socioeconomic data.
• Standardized equipment across all participating hospitals.

Main Results:

• The Korea Infant Physical Growth Examination Survey assessed WHO chart suitability.
• Data collected will inform the next revision of Korean growth charts.
• Established a basis for developing targeted child health strategies in South Korea.

Conclusions:

• The study provides essential data for creating accurate, localized growth charts for Korean children under three.
• It addresses the need for evidence-based growth references tailored to the Korean population.
• Findings will guide future pediatric health policies and interventions in South Korea.