Body Composition Assessment from Birth to Two Years of Age

This publication was developed by an international group of experts as an integral part of the IAEA’s efforts to contribute to the transfer of technology and capacity building in this field in order to assist Member States in their efforts to improve the nutrition and health of the most vulnerable population groups, infants and young children. The book provides practical information on the assessment of body composition from birth up to two years of age and is intended for nutritionists, paediatricians and other health professionals. The body composition assessment techniques included in this publication were selected as methodologies with the highest potential for standardization globally — based on considerations such as access to equipment, cost and the training needs of staff — and include stable isotope dilution for total body water assessment, as well as dual energy X ray absorptiometry and air displacement plethysmography. In addition, the book highlights the importance of standardization of anthropometric measurements as basic measurements of body weight and length are crucial for accurate body composition assessment.