SECULAR CHANGES IN BODY SIZE AND MENARCHE AGE OF JAVANESE ADOLESCENT IN YOGYAKARTA
ABSTRACT: Secular changes
observed in human development are very sensitive bioindicators of social
stresses, social and economic changes, as well as pollution and transformation
of the natural environment. Environmental factors, such as nutritional habits,
lifestyle and infectious diseases appear to be the main causes of differences
in growth and maturation between ethnic and social groups.
Objectives: This study was undertaken to know the secular changes in body
size and menarche age of Javanese adolescent in Yogyakarta.
Methods:The sample consisted of 562 Yogyakarta adolescent (300 girls and
262 boys), ranging from 11 to 18 years of age, measured in August - September
2005. For comparison, data on body size and menarche age of Yogyakarta
adolescent examined in 1982 by Aswin et al were used. Measurements of stature
and height, and menarche age were obtained for two samples of the Yogyakarta
adolescent. Means and standard deviation were calculated for each measurement
and for menarche age.
Results: The results for stature, weight and menarche age of adolescent
measured in 2005 wee greater compared with other Javanese Yogyakarta samples
adolescent 23.years ago. Significant positive trends instature, weight and
menarche age were apparent between the two samples: 7.37 cm (5.1 %),
9.21 kg (26.1 %) and 16.6 months (10.6 %), respectively.
Conclusions: In summary, the results show a positive secular trend in
body dimensions (height and weight) and menarche age, and this can be related
to improvement in living conditions in Yogyakarta, especially during the last
23 years.
Author: Neni Trilusiana Neni
Trilusiana
Journal Code: jpkedokterangg050009