PHYSICAL MEASUREMENTS AND PHYSIOLOGIC PROCESSES IN YOUNG CHILDREN

Abstract

For centuries men have sought a relationship between body form and function. In recent years investigators have been inclined to disregard the individual patient and focus attention on the micro-organisms responsible for his disease. But many individual differences in susceptibility remain unexplained. It is now thought that perhaps the solution of some of the problems in immunity lies in the recognition of certain anatomic and physiologic types or constitutions. Variations in anatomic and physiologic characteristics compatible with health must be defined to establish zones of normality. Most standards of health recognize only one zone as normal. In grading the physical fitness of the children of America, one certain weight for height and age is considered normal. Nutrition properly holds first place in judging the physical status of children. Comprehensive investigations in this field have been carried on by physicians, school nurses, dietitians and health and welfare agencies. A recent report