Brand New Size at Birth Standards Will Improve Neonatal Health

By: Katie Millar, Technical Writer, Women and Health Initiative, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

Newborn size at birth standards are now available from the INTERGROWTH-21^st project. This package includes size charts, standards and z-scores for newborn length, weight and head circumference at birth for boys and girls.

These standards—based on a multicenter, multi-ethnic, population-based study—are the first global standards for newborn growth and debunk the myth that fetal and newborn growth differs by race and country of origin. In fact, results from the INTERGROWTH-21^st project show that if a woman is healthy, the size and growth of her newborn should be consistent, no matter where she lives.

The newborn size at birth standards are currently in use at Oxford. In addition, these standards are being introduced and piloted at INTERGROWTH-21^st study sites and medical centers in the Boston area. We encourage all clinicians to use these standards worldwide.

Next steps to implement these standards in your facility:

• Review and use the Global Perinatal Package of newborn size at birth standards: size charts, standards and z-scores for newborn length, weight and head circumference
• If you would like to add your institutional logo to the charts and/or have them translated into your language, please contact Alison Chatfield.
• We encourage you to ask questions and share your experiences in implementing these standards. In order to do this, please contact Alison Chatfield.

Forthcoming tools:

• Interactive resources such as online calculators and mobile phone tools