Anthropometric growth patterns in Albanian children: gender and urbanrural disparities

This study examines the anthropometric characteristics of Albanian children, analysing gender and urban-rural differences in body height, weight, BMI, and waist circumference across grades. A nationally representative sample of 1,073 children (grade 1-12) from 12 cities in Albania was assessed using standardized measurement protocols. Findings reveal noTable gender disparities in growth patterns, particularly during adolescence. Boys tend to surpass girls in height, weight, BMI, and waist circumference, with these differences becoming more pronounced from grades 8 to 12. Urban boys generally exhibit higher weight, BMI, and waist circumference than their rural counterparts, suggesting the influence of environmental and lifestyle factors. In contrast, rural girls tend to have lower waist circumference and BMI, which may reflect variations in physical activity and body fat distribution. These results underscore the importance of targeted health and nutrition interventions, particularly in adolescence, to address disparities in growth and body composition. Understanding regional and gender-related variations can help policymakers and educators design programs that promote healthy growth and development for all children in Albania.