Anthropometric Measures and IQ in Down Syndrome and Healthy Children: A Case Control Study

Background: In humans, the most prevalent chromosomal disorder and most well-known cause of intellectual impairment is Down syndrome. Chromosome 21 trisomy is the main cause of it. This study’s goal was to compare anthropometric measures and intelligence quotient (IQ) in Down syndrome and healthy children.

Methods: The study included 80 patients divided in to 2 groups: Group A patients: included Forty Down syndrome cases were recruited to the study, their age was between 6-15 years. Group B control: included Forty healthy children were enrolled to the study as a control group, their age and sex were matched with the Down syndrome group.

Results: There were significantly lower in DS group than Controls group as regards height and height z-score. There were significantly higher in DS group than Controls group as regards mean BMI & BMI z-score. There were significantly higher in Controls group than DS group as regards head circumference. There was statistically significant difference between DS & control groups as regard weight status distribution. IQ was statistically lower in DS group than that of the control group.

Conclusions: DS children had lower IQ, height and head circumference with higher BMI and BMI z-score.