Development of a Method for Predicting the Maturity Offset for Peak Height Velocity Suitable for Japanese Youth

抄録

Purpose: Multiple regression equations that estimate the maturity offset for peak height velocity (PHV) have been used in studies regarding adolescents. However, to estimate the maturity of a Japanese population with characteristic proportions, a multiple regression equation developed using a sample of Japanese adolescents is necessary. This study aimed to develop a multiple regression equation that estimates the maturity offset for PHV that can be used for Japanese youth. Methods: Morphometry data of individuals (207 males and 209 females) aged 6 to 18 years were collected. Age at PHV was calculated from the change in the height of each individual, and a multiple regression equation was developed using morphometric data at each age (height, sitting height, lower limb length, and weight) and chronological age. The newly-developed multiple regression equation was compared with a previously-reported equation to determine if it is suitable for Japanese youth. Results: The coefficient of determination (R²) of the multiple regression equation was 0.948 for boys and 0.930 for girls. The differences between the estimated and measured maturity offsets obtained from the multiple regression equation in this study were −0.09 ± 0.81 years for boys and −0.28 ± 0.95 years for girls. In contrast, the differences between the estimated and measured maturity offsets obtained in previous studies were −1.25 ± 1.17 years for boys and −3.40 ± 1.59 years for girls. Conclusion: The newly-developed multiple regression equation is more accurate than previously-reported equations and accurately estimates the maturity offset of Japanese youth in a reliably and practically.