DYNAMICS OF GROWTH AND BODY COMPOSITION OF PRESCHOOL CHILDREN IN THE CITY OF TASHKENT

SCIENCE AND INNOVATION INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL VOLUME 4 ISSUE 10 OCTOBER 2025 ISSN: 2181-3337 | SCIENTISTS.UZ 20 DYNAMICS OF GROWTH AND BODY COMPOSITION OF PRESCHOOL CHILDREN IN THE CITY OF TASHKENT U.M. Mirsharapov1, A.O. Shermanov2 Tashkent Medical University, Uzbekistan, Tashkent, Farabi Street, 21,2 https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17430125 Abstract. The aim of this study was to analyze the growth dynamics and anthropometric characteristics of the trunk and lower limbs in preschool children (aged 2–7 years) living in Tashkent. A total of 1,250 children were included and divided into age groups. Measurements were carried out according to WHO standards, and the data were processed using variation statistics and Z-score analysis. The results showed that children’s height increased by an average of 4.8 cm per year, and body weight by 1.3 kg, with critical periods of accelerated growth identified (5–6 years for height and 6–7 years for weight). Chest and trunk parameters reflected the harmonious development of the respiratory system and skeletal structure. Comparison with international data revealed regional features, including lower body weight and slightly shorter trunk length compared with children from Europe and China. These findings have practical significance for the development of regional growth standards and the implementation of early health monitoring programs for children. Keywords: physical development, anthropometric indicators, growth, body weight, chest parameters, preschool age, regional features, Z-score, children in Tashkent. Introduction The physical development of preschool children is one of the key criteria for assessing health status and the level of the body’s adaptation to environmental conditions. Anthropometric characteristics serve as essential indicators that make it possible to identify growth patterns, diagnose potential deviations, and determine the rate of morphological development. Between the ages of 2 and 7, the body undergoes intensive changes in proportions and the functional systems mature, making this period a critical stage of postnatal ontogenesis (Baranov et al., 2020; Kuchma, 2021). The dynamics of anthropometric parameters, particularly those related to body dimensions, reflect not only individual biological characteristics but also the influence of social, environmental, and cultural factors. According to studies conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO, 2006; WHO, 2021), regular monitoring of physical development is an essential part of preventive medicine and serves as a tool for comparing regional indicators with international standards. Modern research in pediatric anthropometry (Singh et al., 2022; Zhang & Li, 2023) emphasizes the importance of an integrated approach that takes into account genetic predispositions, nutrition patterns, levels of physical activity, family socio-economic conditions, and environmental factors. Studies conducted in Central Asian countries (Tashkenbaev et al., 2019; Ergashev, 2020) demonstrate that urbanization and lifestyle changes can significantly affect the physical development indicators of preschoolers, forming distinct regional trends. Particular interest lies in studying children of the indigenous population of large metropolitan areas such as Tashkent, where various socio-living conditions coexist and where traditional and modern lifestyles intersect. Comparing the obtained data with international standards and findings from other regions of the world allows the identification of both universal patterns of physical SCIENCE AND INNOVATION INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL VOLUME 4 ISSUE 10 OCTOBER 2025 ISSN: 2181-3337 | SCIENTISTS.UZ 21 development and unique regional characteristics. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the dynamics of growth and anthropometric characteristics of the trunk among preschool children of the indigenous population of Tashkent. The study seeks to identify patterns of their morphological development, assess the influence of social and biological factors, and compare the obtained data with international standards (WHO, 2006; WHO, 2021). Materials and Methods A total of 1,250 preschool children aged 2 to 7 years, attending public and private preschool educational institutions in the city of Tashkent, participated in the study. The sample was selected using a random sampling method with balanced representation by sex and age. All participants were practically healthy, had no chronic diseases, congenital anomalies, or significant deviations in physical development, which was confirmed by medical records and pediatricians’ conclusions. To analyze age-related trends, the children were divided into six age groups: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 years. This classification allowed for the observation of the dynamics of changes in anthropometric characteristics at key stages of the preschool period. Conditions of Measurement Anthropometric assessments were conducted in the medical offices of kindergartens under natural lighting and optimal air temperature conditions. Measurements were taken in the first half of the day, on an empty stomach or at least two hours after a meal, ensuring the comparability of the obtained data. Instruments and Methods Standardized methodologies recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO, 2021) and national pediatric anthropometric standards were applied. The following instruments were used: • Stadiometer (accuracy ±0.1 cm); • Medical scales (accuracy ±0.05 kg); • Anthropometer and calipers for measuring chest diameters; • Flexible measuring tapes for circumference measurements. Measured Anthropometric Parameters: • Standing and sitting height; • Body weight; • Trunk length; • Chest circumference (at rest, during inspiration, and at maximum expiration); • Waist and abdominal circumferences; • Upper trunk segment length (from the jugular notch to the ischial tuberosities); • Transverse and anteroposterior diameters of the chest; • Chest height. Organization and Quality Control of Measurements All measurements were carried out by trained medical personnel, and each parameter was measured at least twice. If the results differed by more than 0.3 cm or 0.1 kg, a repeated measurement was taken. The arithmetic mean value was used in further analysis. Statistical Data Processing For each indicator, the mean (M), standard deviation (σ), and standard error of the mean (m) were calculated. The significance of differences between age and sex groups was determined using the Student’s t-test (t). Correlation analysis was used to identify relationships between parameters. In addition, percentile distributions and Z-score evaluations were performed, allowing SCIENCE AND INNOVATION INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL VOLUME 4 ISSUE 10 OCTOBER 2025 ISSN: 2181-3337 | SCIENTISTS.UZ 22 comparison of the results with international standards for children’s physical development (WHO, 2006; WHO, 2021). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS Statistics v.27 and Microsoft Excel 2022. The level of statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Results and Discussion The results of the study showed that the physical development of preschool children is characterized by a consistent and progressive increase in the main anthropometric parameters. Height increased from 93.4 cm at the age of two to 117.2 cm at the age of seven, corresponding to an average annual growth of 4.8 cm. These values are consistent with the World Health Organization (WHO) international standards, although growth rates varied across age groups. The most pronounced growth spurt was observed between four and six years of age, with increases of 9.7% at five years and 6.18% at six years, confirming the existence of critical periods of accelerated growth during which the body is most sensitive to environmental factors. Body weight also showed a steady increase — from 14.5 kg at two years to 20.8 kg at seven years, with an average annual gain of 1.3 kg. The most intensive increase occurred between six and seven years (3.03% and 3.39%, respectively), reflecting the accumulation of muscle mass, active development of the musculoskeletal system, and increased physical activity. The relationship between height and weight indicated harmonious physical development: the body mass index (BMI) of most children remained within the physiological norm, although individual variations were noted depending on nutrition, physical activity level, and genetic factors. Analysis of body proportions revealed significant changes during the preschool years, reflecting the development of the skeleton and the respiratory and digestive systems. Trunk length increased from 28.9 cm to 35.7 cm, indicating proportional growth of the spine correlated with the elongation of the lower limbs. The chest circumference at rest increased from 50.8 cm to 55.2 cm, and during inspiration from 52.5 cm to 56.5 cm, corresponding to the enlargement of lung capacity and the maturation of the respiratory system. Waist circumference grew from 49.2 cm to 52.7 cm, and abdominal circumference from 50.7 cm to 53.4 cm, reflecting the development of abdominal muscles and internal organs. The transverse chest diameter rose from 14.0 cm to 15.3 cm, and the anteroposterior diameter from 12.8 cm to 15.7 cm — the more rapid increase of the transverse diameter indicates adaptive changes in the respiratory apparatus. Chest height increased from 16.8 cm to 20.6 cm, demonstrating strengthening of the thoracic framework and development of respiratory musculature. The most pronounced changes in chest circumference and diameters were observed between four and six years, coinciding with increased motor activity and higher oxygen demand. Growth rate analysis revealed several critical developmental periods. Maximum height growth was observed at five (9.7%) and six years (6.18%), associated with active development of the spine and limbs. Sitting height increased more slowly, indicating relative elongation of the lower limbs compared to the trunk, which reflects the formation of harmonious body proportions. Body weight increased most rapidly between six and seven years, linked to muscle development and accumulation of energy reserves. A significant increase in chest circumference during inspiration occurred at six years (2.88%), reflecting the growth of lung capacity and the establishment of diaphragmatic breathing. The anteroposterior chest diameter showed its greatest increase between five and six years, important for posture and respiratory function formation. Chest height increased most notably between six and seven years, confirming these ages as critical for the maturation of the respiratory system. SCIENCE AND INNOVATION INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL VOLUME 4 ISSUE 10 OCTOBER 2025 ISSN: 2181-3337 | SCIENTISTS.UZ 23 Comparison with international data showed that the height of children in Tashkent generally corresponds to global standards; however, body weight was slightly lower compared to age-matched groups in Europe and China. This may be attributed to nutritional patterns and higher physical activity levels. The dynamics of chest circumference were comparable to those observed in countries with a temperate climate, though the rate of anteroposterior diameter increase was somewhat lower, possibly due to regional environmental factors. Overall, body proportions were consistent with global trends, although a relatively shorter trunk length was noted alongside normal limb length, which may be linked to ethnic and constitutional characteristics. In conclusion, the preschool period represents a critical phase of harmonious yet uneven growth, requiring personalized monitoring of physical development using centile tables and Z-score analysis to ensure timely detection of deviations and the development of individualized preventive measures. Conclusion 1. Between the ages of 2 and 7, children exhibit a consistent and progressive increase in anthropometric parameters such as height, body weight, chest circumference, and trunk height. The average annual height gain was 4.8 cm, which corresponds to global standards (WHO, 2006; WHO, 2021). Meanwhile, body weight increased by an average of 1.3 kg per year, though it remained slightly lower compared to peers in developed countries of Europe and Asia — likely due to regional differences in diet, climate, and physical activity levels. 2. The most pronounced growth rates (G) were recorded between 5 and 6 years, confirming the existence of a critical period of accelerated physical development. During this age range, there is active elongation of the trunk and lower limbs, intensive development of the muscular and skeletal systems, and increased functional capacity of the organism. These findings highlight the need for enhanced monitoring of diet quality and adequate physical activity, ensuring sufficient intake of protein, calcium, vitamin D, and other essential micronutrients. 3. The dynamics of chest parameters indicate significant changes in the respiratory system. A marked increase in chest circumference during inspiration at the age of six (2.88%) reflects age-related restructuring of lung function and supports the hypothesis of the establishment of diaphragmatic breathing. This is of great importance for the prevention of bronchopulmonary diseases, the formation of correct posture, and the development of children’s aerobic endurance. 4. Comparison with international data showed that the growth indicators of children in Tashkent generally correspond to global norms; however, several regional features were identified: o Lower body weight compared to peers in Europe and China, associated with nutritional habits and higher physical activity; o Slower increase in the anteroposterior chest diameter, which may reflect regional characteristics in the development of respiratory musculature and the thoracic framework; o Slightly shorter trunk length, likely influenced by genetic, ethnic, and climatic factors. 5. The results have practical significance and can be used to develop regional standards of physical development for preschoolers, create adapted programs for nutrition and physical activity, and integrate into national child health monitoring systems. Including anthropometric parameters in comprehensive health assessment programs will allow for early detection of developmental deviations and implementation of corrective measures at the earliest stages of growth. Additional Analysis SCIENCE AND INNOVATION INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL VOLUME 4 ISSUE 10 OCTOBER 2025 ISSN: 2181-3337 | SCIENTISTS.UZ 24 Comparison with international studies confirms the universality of the main stages of physical development in preschool children while emphasizing the importance of regional context. Specifically, differences in body weight, trunk proportions, and chest dynamics reflect the combined influence of genetic, climatic, and socio-behavioral factors. The identified growth patterns can be practically applied for: • Developing ageand region-specific standards of physical development in Central Asia; • Identifying key stages of accelerated growth and adapting nutrition and physical activity to these critical periods; • Using anthropometric parameters in interdisciplinary research in pediatrics, developmental physiology, and anthropology; • Enhancing the effectiveness of preventive and health-promoting programs aimed at achieving harmonious physical development. Thus, this study expands the understanding of the patterns of physical development in preschool children and underscores the need for a comprehensive and regionally adapted approach to assessing child health. REFERENCES 1. Singh, A., Kumar, P., & Verma, R. (2022). Growth trends in preschool children: A global perspective. Journal of Pediatric Health, 14(3), 112–120. 2. Zhang, Y., & Li, H. (2023). Anthropometric characteristics in early childhood. 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