Growth monitoring is an almost universal practice that consists of routine measurements to detect abnormal growth in children, combined with some action when this is detected. It aims to improve nutrition, reduce the risk of death or inadequate nutrition, help educate parents, and lead to early referral for conditions manifest by growth disorders. Much time is invested in this activity, and yet adequate evidence for its benefits and harms is not available.

This study found no difference in nutritional outcomes between children who had undergone growth monitoring versus those who had not. Researchers stated that the policy of routine growth monitoring is based on the yet unproven opinions that it both has worthwhile health benefits and does no harm. The study could find no evidence to support or refute these beliefs, but questions the wisdom of devoting so much time and effort into an intervention with such questionable value.

Arch Dis Child 2000;82:197-201