The mid-arm circumference is a standardized means of assessing nutritional status that has the advantage of being quick and easy to carry out. This has facilitated its use in the developing world. Arbitrary minimum values are around 22 cm in females and 25 cm in males. Subtracting triceps skin-fold thickness, the mid-arm circumference can be used to calculate approximate mid-arm muscle circumference.
However, the latter variable is dependent on numerous factors including age and race; it is far better to monitor the trend in arm circumference with time in one individual.
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