RESUMO
PIP: Weight and length measurements were recorded for 1583 babies during the 1st year of life. The population sample was fairly constant and composed of children from white, middle and upper income families seen in the private practice of 11 pediatricians in Dallas, Texas. This study was part of a larger research effort to determine how diets during the 1st 6 months affect subsequent development of allergy. The babies were subdivided into 3 groups according to family history for allergy and 3 groups according to diet (cow, breast or soy milk) during the 1st 6 months. After examination at birth, the babies were reexamined monthly up to 6 months of age and bimonthly thereafter up to age 1. Nearly 22,000 observations were made in all. Tables and charts were constructed showing mean weight and length measurements plotted from birth through 38 weeks against 24 possible combinations of sex, family allergy history, and diet. No significant difference was detectable between subgroups when differences in birth weight were taken into account. Compared with the Iowa norms for infant growth which were established from measurements taken 1926-49, these babies grew taller in the 1st year of life; weight differences were minimal. Revised infant growth charts, more consistent with today's growth patterns, are needed.^ieng
