Which anthropometric index is used in the Waterlow classification to identify 'stunting' in a child?
- A Height-for-age ✓
- B Weight-for-age
- C Weight-for-height
- D Mid-upper arm circumference
Correct answer: A. Height-for-age
Explanation
The Waterlow classification uses two independent indices: height-for-age identifies stunting (chronic malnutrition, past or long-standing deficit) and weight-for-height identifies wasting (acute malnutrition, current deficit). Weight-for-age, used by the Gomez and Indian Academy of Pediatrics classifications, cannot distinguish acute from chronic malnutrition because it conflates both deficits. MUAC is a screening tool for wasting and is not part of the Waterlow system.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
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